USDA Plan Protects Cattle and Food Supply from New World Screwworm
Nebraska Farm Bureau supports five-step USDA plan to protect livestock, food supply, and rural economies.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed the nation’s first human case of New World Screwworm (NWS). While the risk to public health remains very low, time is critical in ensuring this pest does not impact U.S. livestock.
Nebraska Farm Bureau (NEFB) commends USDA and Secretary Brooke Rollins for their swift action and commitment of resources to protect America’s cattle herd. USDA has announced a new sterile fly production facility in Edinburg, Texas, and treatments are available to both prevent and address infestations.
USDA’s updated five-step plan to combat NWS includes:
- Research and Innovation – $100 million to advance new technologies, sterile fly production, improved traps, and treatment supplies.
- Texas Sterile Fly Facility – Capable of producing 300 million sterile flies weekly, reducing reliance on foreign production and strengthening domestic capacity.
- Border Security Measures – Expanded mounted patrols, trained detector dogs, and enhanced monitoring at ports of entry.
- Collaboration with Mexico – Strengthened case reporting, movement restrictions, and surveillance in coordination with Mexican animal health officials.
- Food Supply Safety – Inspections confirm no screwworms in U.S. livestock or food products.
The U.S. has successfully eradicated NWS in the past, including during a 2016 re-emergence in the Florida Keys. With rapid response and coordinated efforts, we can do so again. Nebraska Farm Bureau thanks USDA and Secretary Rollins for their leadership in protecting America’s food supply, and NEFB stands ready to support the timely construction of the Texas facility and full implementation of this updated plan.
The USDA urges immediate report of any suspicious wounds, maggots,or infestations to a local accredited veterinarian, your State Animal Health Official, or a USDA veterinarian.