Health Alert in Rural Areas: The Return of the Screwworm Threatens Mexican Livestock
Sourse: dairynews.today
The resurgence of the screwworm in Mexico poses significant risks to animal health, livestock economy, and international livestock product trade.
The screwworm, Cochliomyia hominivorax, which was previously thought eradicated in Mexico, has reemerged, causing serious concern among producers and authorities. Recent outbreaks have been confirmed by the Secretariat of Agriculture and Rural Development (SADER) in the southern regions of Mexico, threatening the health and economic sustainability of cattle, goat, and pig farming. The screwworm deposits its larvae in open wounds of animals, feeding on live tissue, leading to severe pain, weight loss, decreased production, and potentially death. This directly affects the quality of animal products and necessitates costly sanitary measures.
Previously, the eradication of this pest was achieved through the sustained use of the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT), releasing sterile males to curb the pest population. However, recent outbreaks highlight the need to strengthen epidemiological surveillance, particularly in border areas and zones with uncontrolled animal movement. Moreover, the screwworm's return jeopardizes Mexican livestock exports, with potential import restrictions from buying countries if sanitary risks are detected.
Such restrictions could damage trade agreements and Mexico's international sanitary reputation, leading to economic losses potentially reaching millions of dollars if not addressed promptly. SADER, in collaboration with the International Regional Organization for Plant and Animal Health (OIRSA), is actively formulating a containment and eradication plan, working alongside farmers for timely case detection and reporting. Experts stress the importance of constant monitoring, sanitary education, and regional cooperation to prevent the spread of this threat.
Previously, the eradication of this pest was achieved through the sustained use of the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT), releasing sterile males to curb the pest population. However, recent outbreaks highlight the need to strengthen epidemiological surveillance, particularly in border areas and zones with uncontrolled animal movement. Moreover, the screwworm's return jeopardizes Mexican livestock exports, with potential import restrictions from buying countries if sanitary risks are detected.
Such restrictions could damage trade agreements and Mexico's international sanitary reputation, leading to economic losses potentially reaching millions of dollars if not addressed promptly. SADER, in collaboration with the International Regional Organization for Plant and Animal Health (OIRSA), is actively formulating a containment and eradication plan, working alongside farmers for timely case detection and reporting. Experts stress the importance of constant monitoring, sanitary education, and regional cooperation to prevent the spread of this threat.
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