He Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food—MAGA— declared State of Emergency due to cattle screwworm outbreaks in Guatemalaa disease that mainly affects livestock, but can also affect people and pets.
State of Emergency declared due to outbreaks of cattle screwworm in Guatemala: first case detected since 1994 in the country
On Tuesday, October 29, the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food—MAGA—announced that it has been confirmed first case of cattle screwworm—GBG—in Guatemalaspecifically in the municipality of Los Amates, Izabal.
This is the first case to be recorded in 20 years, since the country declared itself free of the disease in 1994. The reported case was recorded in a two-month-old calf, with the possible route of entry being the navel. Once the case was reported, the animal received treatment and the samples were sent to the official laboratory of the Animal Health Directorate, which confirmed the positive diagnosis.
State of animal health emergency throughout the national territory
During the press conference on the first case of cattle screwworm in the country, Mynor Estrada, MAGA minister, indicated that prior to determining the first positive case, the decision was made to declare a state of animal health emergency throughout the national territory.
The state of emergency, established in the Ministerial Agreement No. 147-2024comes into force the day after its publication in the Official Gazette, that is, October 30. This document indicates the sanitary measures that will be implemented to prevent the entry of animals infested with larvae of the fly that causes the disease, as well as the creation of a specific commission and other measures, such as retention and sanctions for non-compliance. of the provisions in the agreement.
In addition to this, the agreement indicates that it is “the obligation of producers, veterinary doctors, livestock and laboratory technicians, agro services and the general public, to notify MAGA of the presence in animals of cattle screwworm – GBG – also called worm . The emergency has a validity period of 2 years and may be extended for a similar period, which must be managed with a minimum of two months in advance prior to the expiration of its initial validity.
Epidemiological surveillance activities are prioritized in the highest risk regions, which include the departments bordering Honduras and El Salvador, as well as in the departments with the largest livestock population.
About cattle screwworm disease
The MAGA indicates that the cattle screwworm, also known as gusanera or miasisit is a disease caused by fly larvae Cochliomyia hominivoraxwhich feeds on living tissues and fluids generated in wounds. Infection occurs when a gravid or pregnant fly lays its eggs on the exposed part of a wound, feeding on the host as they grow.
This disease represents a threat to national livestock, mainly affecting cattle, dogs, pigs and horses, according to the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH). Although these are the animals that are most affected, it also represents a danger to warm-blooded animals, such as birds, pets and also people.
Its name refers to the way the larvae feed, which pierce or bore into healthy tissues, which can cause a small wound to become larger and deeper as the larvae grow and feed on living tissue.
How can it affect humans?
Although less common, the cattle screwworm can also infect humans. Transmission occurs in a similar way to that in animals: through open wounds. People at highest risk are those with scrapes, cuts, insect bites, recent surgical wounds, or medical conditions that cause sores or bleeding, as well as those who have weakened immune systems or sleep outdoors.
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State of Emergency Declared in Guatemala Due to Cattle Screwworm Outbreaks
The Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food (MAGA) has confirmed a state of emergency in response to outbreaks of cattle screwworm, a significant concern affecting livestock, and identified the first case in Guatemala since 1994. The alarming news follows the identification of the disease in a two-month-old calf in Los Amates, Izabal. This incident marks the first case detected in 20 years, raising health concerns for local livestock and potentially impacting other warm-blooded species, including humans.
Context and Response
On October 29, 2023, the MAGA announced the initial detection of the cattle screwworm (GBG), with the case confirmed by the official laboratory of the Animal Health Directorate. The calf potentially contracted the disease through its navel, leading to urgent treatment measures. Following reports, MAGA declared a state of animal health emergency effective from October 30, 2023, under Ministerial Agreement No. 147-2024. This response aims to implement sanitary protocols to stop the spread of infested animals and outlines specific measures to ensure compliance from producers and veterinary personnel. The agreement will last two years but may be extended.
Health Threat and Measures
Cattle screwworm, caused by the Cochliomyia hominivorax fly, poses a serious threat to livestock, infesting wounds and feeding on living tissue. This disease affects not only cattle but also other animals such as dogs, pigs, and even humans, particularly those with open wounds or compromised immune systems.
MAGA emphasizes the importance of notifying authorities regarding any signs of the disease in order to prevent widespread outbreaks. Enhanced epidemiological surveillance will be concentrated in regions at risk, particularly near borders and in areas with substantial livestock populations.
Human Impact and Risks
While infections in humans are rare, they can occur through similar mechanisms as in animals, particularly in individuals with open wounds. Those who are particularly vulnerable include people with cuts or bites, recent surgical wounds, or who have a weakened immune system.
This development highlights the critical intersection of animal health and human health, necessitating coordinated responses to manage and mitigate the risks posed by zoonotic diseases like cattle screwworm.
And Safety Measures
To address the cattle screwworm outbreak, the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food (MAGA) has implemented several vital health and safety measures. These steps are designed to protect local livestock and mitigate the potential spread of the disease among other warm-blooded species, including humans.
- Monitoring and Reporting: Increased surveillance is being conducted in affected regions to identify new cases quickly. Livestock owners are urged to report any signs of infestation, such as open wounds or unusual behavior in their animals.
- Sanitary Protocols: MAGA has established strict sanitary protocols for handling and treating infected animals. This includes guidelines for the treatment of wounds, the disposal of dead animals, and cleaning equipment that comes into contact with livestock.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Educational programs are being rolled out to inform farmers and the public about the risks associated with the cattle screwworm, symptoms to look for, and how to prevent infection. This awareness is crucial for early detection and containment of the disease.
- Veterinary Support: Veterinary personnel are being mobilized to assist farmers in diagnosing and treating affected animals. MAGA is facilitating access to necessary medical interventions and ensuring that vets are educated about the disease.
- Emergency Response Teams: Special task forces are being created to tackle outbreaks swiftly. These teams are responsible for field assessments, coordination with local authorities, and implementing emergency health protocols.
- Regulatory Measures: The government is enforcing regulations that mandate the vaccination and treatment of livestock in high-risk areas. Compliance is monitored to ensure adherence to these health measures.
The declaration of a state of emergency highlights the gravity of the situation and the need for concerted efforts to control this zoonotic disease. The collaboration between government agencies, veterinary services, and the livestock community is essential to prevent further outbreaks and protect both animal and public health.
By following these guidelines and remaining vigilant, Guatemala aims to combat the resurgence of cattle screwworm disease effectively and safeguard its agricultural industry from this significant threat.