Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum reported last Wednesday, November 27, that they hope to resolve this week the case of the screwworm detected in a cow in Chiapas, near the border with Guatemala.
In her morning press conference, Sheinbaum assured that the case is being handled under established protocols and in coordination with the US authorities.
US measures and binational coordination
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) confirmed that it was notified by the Mexican authorities about the detection of the screwworm at a checkpoint in southern Mexico.
Given this situation, the USDA implemented precautionary measures and asked producers in the area to closely monitor their livestock and domestic animals, in addition to reporting any suspicious cases.
Sheinbaum explained that her government maintains constant communication with the Secretary of Agriculture, Julio Berdegué, to coordinate the necessary actions and address the observations of the USDA.
“It is part of the protocol that we have, and we are working to resolve it this week,” said the president.
Screwworm
The impact of the screwworm
The screwworm, also known as Cochliomyia hominivorax, is a pest that affects cattle and other animals, causing severe tissue damage due to the infestation of larvae.
This situation could represent significant health and economic risks for the affected areas, which has motivated a rapid response by the authorities.
In light of the discovery, the USDA and the Mexican authorities urged local producers to redouble their efforts in sanitary surveillance.
They recommended frequently checking their animals, reporting suspected cases and following the established protocols to prevent the spread of this pest.
Source: lared1061