NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — Additional cases of New World Screwworm were confirmed over the weekend, bringing the total number of reported cases to 15.
While sterile flies remain the primary tool for controlling the pest, animal health officials are stressing the importance of having a complete and thorough biosecurity plan on every livestock operation.
“A few other things we need to think about here include vigilant biosecurity on the farm level,” explains Bernt Nelson. “It’s really important for farmers to get eyes on their animals as frequently as possible, to establish a working relationship with their veterinarian, and to keep ties close in case there’s a suspicious case that needs to be reported to the vet. We need to inspect pens for anything that could cause a wound, as well as to follow veterinarian protocols for dressing wounds that could be susceptible to New World screwworm.”
According to the USDA, the most recent cases include a lamb and two calves, all located in Texas.
