Representative Andy Biggs (R-AZ) spearheaded a recent letter to Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, commending the Department's rapid response to reports of a new New World screwworm infestation in the United States.
What is a Screwworm, and How Did This Start?
Screwworm refers to the maggots of a fly species originally from the Caribbean. Females lay eggs in open wounds and other vulnerable areas present on mammals (commonly livestock and pets, occasionally people). The maggots burrow into flesh, causing severe damage and frequently killing the host. While it was largely eradicated in 1966 thanks to releasing sterile males into the population, it has occasionally resurfaced, including this latest outbreak from Mexico.
The first case was detected last week, and four more have arisen in New Mexico and Texas.
USDA's Response
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's rapid response to the reemergence of screwworm earned praise from Rep. Biggs. The response involves enhanced surveillance efforts, expanded trapping and monitoring programs, strengthened partnerships with Mexico and Central American nations, investments in sterile fly production capacity, and the establishment of a dedicated New World Screwworm Directorate within the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).
Additionally, Rep. Biggs pointed out that Arizona should not be overlooked as a source of assets, including its border access, livestock industry, and university research, which make the Grand Canyon State an invaluable partner in confronting the latest infestation.
"I'm grateful for USDA's proactive response to address the New World screwworm threat at our southern border," the Arizona congressman said in a press release. "These decisive federal actions will certainly help protect America's food supply and livestock industry. As the administration carries out its strategy, Arizona stands ready to support USDA's long-term response. With our border access, transportation networks, livestock expertise, and university-led research, Arizona is well positioned to help prevent an outbreak, protect producers, and strengthen regional stability before this pest can take hold on American soil."
