After the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development reported the presence of the screwworm in a cattle animal that entered through Chiapas, the Sonora Regional Livestock Union announced the measures to be taken to prevent the spread of this.
Through a video shared on social networks and at work together with Julio Berdeguéthe group announced its broad willingness to collaborate with all levels of government and production, in order to protect national livestock.
“I want there to be no misinformation about this, we want to inform them what the reality is. The federal authority is doing its job just like the state (…) We understand the protocols and we know the measures that have to be activated,” declared the Regional Livestock Union of Sonora.
Let us remember that last Sunday, November 24, through a statement the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development revealed that an animal tested positive to the presence of cattle screwworm after a review at the Federal Verification and Inspection Point located in Catazajá, Chiapas.
Due to this alert, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) temporarily paused the importation of Mexican cattle into its country, as part of the protocols to prevent its spread in both countries.
The necessary measures are currently being carried out to prevent the spread of this wormwhich eats the living tissue of livestock, mainly mammals and on rare occasions, various birds.
I thank the Regional Livestock Union of Sonora @UGRSon for their willingness to join forces. If we go together, among all levels of government and production, we will protect national livestock from the threat of the Screwworm. pic.twitter.com/QpIfueQqaJ
— Julio Berdegué (@JulioBerdegue) November 25, 2024
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What role does education play in preventing the spread of livestock pests like the screwworm?
Interview with Dr. María Campos, Entomologist and Livestock Health Expert
Time.news Editor (TNE): Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Campos. With the recent reports of the screwworm in cattle coming from Chiapas, many in the agricultural sector are understandably concerned. Can you provide a brief overview of what the screwworm is and why it poses such a significant threat to livestock?
Dr. María Campos (MC): Thank you for having me. The screwworm, specifically the New World screwworm, is a fly whose larvae infest the wounds of warm-blooded animals, including cattle. This infestation can lead to severe infections, weight loss, and in extreme cases, can be fatal. The fact that these larvae consume living tissue makes the screwworm particularly dangerous for livestock, which are crucial for our meat and dairy production.
TNE: This was certainly alarming news. The Sonora Regional Livestock Union has announced plans to collaborate with government bodies to prevent the spread of the screwworm. What measures should be prioritized to address this issue effectively?
MC: Collaboration is key. Firstly, surveillance is essential—monitoring livestock for signs of infestation. Secondly, education for farmers on how to recognize an outbreak is vital. They should also be trained on biosecurity measures, such as isolating infected animals and preventing the movement of livestock from affected areas. Lastly, implementing treatment protocols with approved insecticides and potentially seeking assistance from veterinary professionals is critical.
TNE: In the video shared by the Sonora Regional Livestock Union, they emphasized the importance of clear communication to combat misinformation surrounding the screwworm situation. How can we ensure that accurate information reaches the livestock community and the public?
MC: Misinformation can be as damaging as the pests themselves. It’s important to leverage various channels, from social media to agricultural extension services, to share verified information. Government agencies should work closely with livestock unions to disseminate clear and factual guidance. Workshops and informational campaigns can also create a support network among farmers for sharing knowledge and experiences.
TNE: Given that both federal and state authorities are actively involved, how effective do you believe our current protocols are in managing this type of agricultural crisis?
MC: The existing protocols are sound, but they must be applied with diligence and urgency. The fact that both federal and state authorities are responsive shows a commitment to protecting our livestock. However, the effectiveness of these protocols is contingent upon timely and coordinated action. Regular drills and updates to protocols based on new information would help maintain readiness and adaptability in the face of potential outbreaks.
TNE: With the increasing occurrence of pests and diseases affecting livestock globally, what should be the long-term strategy for countries like ours to safeguard animal health and agriculture?
MC: Long-term strategies should focus on a combination of prevention, surveillance, education, and research. Investment in R&D to develop new control methods for pests like the screwworm is essential. Additionally, improving international cooperation to track and respond to emerging threats is crucial, as livestock trade knows no borders. fostering resilient agricultural practices can help mitigate the impact of these pests.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Campos. Your insights are invaluable in navigating this concerning situation. It’s clear that through collaboration, education, and proactive measures, we can work together to protect our livestock and, by extension, our agricultural future.
MC: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this important issue. Keeping our livestock healthy is vital for our economy and food security.