LUBBOCK, TEXAS (RFD NEWS) — Texas is expanding New World screwworm inspection capacity to help keep livestock moving while the state responds to confirmed cases. Governor Greg Abbott announced a free online training course through Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service on June 13.
The four-hour course is available through the AgriLife Learn platform. It covers screwworm biology, surveillance, reporting, animal inspection, treatment protocols, agency roles, and movement permit requirements.
Qualified participants who pass the final exam may apply to become Texas Animal Health Commission-certified inspectors. Those inspectors can issue official treatment and movement certificates for livestock leaving infested zones.
Initial eligibility includes veterinarians, veterinary technicians, AgriLife Extension agents, livestock deputies, animal control officers, state inspectors, and designated personnel at temporary livestock aggregation points. The course is also open to the public.
Officials say the screwworm is not contagious, does not spread from animal to animal like a virus, and is not a food safety issue.
Dr. Rosslyn Biggs with the Oklahoma State University Center for Rural Veterinary Medicine joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to discuss the latest developments and what producers should keep in mind as the industry works to prevent the spread of the pest.
In her interview with RFD News, Biggs discussed the importance of early detection and how producers can take a proactive approach to monitoring for New World screwworm. She also addressed USDA’s efforts to release sterile flies in affected areas and discussed additional methods or tools that may be available to help eradicate the pest going forward.
Biggs emphasized the importance of staying informed and vigilant as the situation develops and discussed how she is helping producers access information and resources.
She also spoke about the value of establishing a relationship with a veterinarian before an emergency occurs and why that preparation is important for livestock operations.
Looking ahead, Biggs discussed what the path forward may look like as the industry continues working to stay protected from New World screwworm. She also shared final advice for producers and outlined steps they should take if they believe they have come in contact with the pest.
