en.Wedoany.com Reported - U.S. cattle producers are facing the risk of a potential invasion by the New World screwworm, with experts recommending enhanced monitoring and management to protect herd health. Dr. Thach Winslow, an external cattle veterinary consultant for Elanco's beef business unit, emphasized that early case identification is crucial for controlling this pest.

Winslow stated: "Many people ask what product is most effective against screwworms, but I believe the key is observation. Producers need to regularly inspect their herds, detect signs of infection early, and address them promptly." He specifically noted that the umbilical cords of newborn calves are high-risk areas, and without protective measures, approximately 80% of cases could occur there.

Recent reports from Tamaulipas, Mexico, detail multiple New World screwworm infections, including three cases involving calves under 15 days old, raising vigilance within the U.S. livestock industry. Winslow told the media that an effective method for eradicating this pest is releasing sterile flies, but current production capacity is limited. Panama produces about 100 million sterile flies per week, yet to effectively cover potentially affected areas, an estimated 500 million per week would be needed to curb the spread.

Winslow added that if the New World screwworm enters the United States, reducing wounds and potential infection sites on cattle will be an important measure to lower risk. The pest has not been detected in the U.S. so far, and livestock trade corridors along the southern border remain closed. Producers need to remain vigilant and implement scientific herd management strategies to address potential biosecurity threats.

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