Texas to Launch Innovative Fly Factory in Battle Against Flesh-Eating Parasite: What You Need to Know

The U.S. government is launching a new initiative to combat a serious threat to American cattle: the New World screwworm fly. By the end of this year, they plan to open a facility in Texas to breed millions of these flies. The aim is to release sterile males into the wild, preventing them from mating with females, which can lay eggs in animal wounds. This approach has been effective in the past.

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced this move at Moore Air Base, not far from the Mexico border. The $8.5 million facility will be the second of its kind in the Western Hemisphere, joining a similar one in Panama. This facility helped keep the flies at bay until recently when they were spotted in southern Mexico.

The presence of these flies poses significant concerns. The U.S. has already suspended imports of live cattle, horses, and bison from Mexico. Rollins emphasized the need for a strong response, recalling how the U.S. successfully eradicated these flies in the 1960s.

Historically, New World screwworms have caused major damage to livestock, especially in the Southeast. Infected wounds can lead to severe health issues and even death for animals if left untreated. Buck Wehrbein, a Nebraska cattle rancher, highlighted that without a robust supply of sterile flies, ranchers could face economic devastation.

Experts agree that proactive measures are critical. Data from the USDA indicates that the flies have been found as close as 700 miles from the U.S. border. This has sparked worries that they could reach the border by the end of summer if not controlled. Kansas Animal Health Commissioner Justin Smith pointed out that wildlife could also carry the flies across borders, emphasizing the need for vigilance.

Mexican officials have welcomed the U.S. initiative, viewing it as a positive step for bilateral efforts to control the fly’s spread. Collaboration is key, and both countries are committed to working together.

As we monitor this situation, it’s essential for farmers, ranchers, and officials to remain informed. The stakes are high, and the health of American cattle and the agriculture industry depends on swift and effective action against these pests.

For more on the New World screwworm and its impact, you can read from the USDA’s official site here.

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Texas, Mexico, Animals, Insects, General news, KS State Wire, Latin America, Kansas, TX State Wire, Business, U.S. news, Julio Berdegu, Justin Smith, Derek Trucks, Science, U.S. News