The first official case of New World Screwworm in the U.S. was found on a calf June 3 in South Texas, but the infected cases are inching closer to Central Texas. Travis, Caldwell and Kerr counties have declared local disasters and are working with state and federal agencies to prevent an infestation.
NWS are parasitic flies that lay eggs in open wounds and moist body parts of warmblooded animals, including pets. The eggs hatch into maggots that feed on living tissue and will kill the animal if left untreated.
“The State of Texas will use every tool to protect our cattle industry and wildlife while we eradicate this pest,” Gov. Greg Abbott said in a release.
On June 15, Abbott established a free online course, https://agrilifelearn. tamu.edu/s/product/ new-world-screwworm- preparedness-andresponse- education, to increase the number of certified NWS inspectors and to educate those interested in learning about NWS.
“AgriLife and TAHC moved quickly to launch this training. Now more people, including private industry, will be able to inspect and certify animals for movement. Through this program, Texas will protect our ranchers, ensure the security of our food supply, and keep business strong,” Abbott said.
“Stopping the spread of NWS will not be possible without our inspectors knowing what to look for,” said U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins.
Rollins initially denied that NWS was making its way into the state, but she now encourages “everyone who is able to help us identify and report suspected cases to help eradicate this pest as fast as possible.”
Ranchers and livestock producers are urged to inspect their animals regularly for wounds or signs of infestation, officials said.
Suspected cases of NWS are to be reported to investigators immediately.
While Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has criticized the federal government’s “slow, bureaucratic and incomplete response” to NWS, in an interview with The Texas Tribune, he said, “We have the ability to… eradicate that screwworm. We can do it in about 60 days. USDA has the tools and the knowledge to do it.”
While no cases of NWS have been reported in Williamson County, the office of Emergency Management issued a press release June 26 encouraging pet and livestock owners to recognize the signs and symptoms of NWS.
Early detection can save animal lives and stop the spread of infection.
Texas Parks & Wildlife is providing regular updates and locations about NWS online at www.tpwd.texas.gov/ huntwild/wild/diseases/ screwworm.
