USDA Announces Sweeping Plan to Combat New World Screwworm

The USDA has announced a sweeping readiness and response plan in light of increasing threats of New World screwworm (NWS). The plan aims to enhance USDA’s ability to detect, control, and eliminate the pest. 

“The United States has defeated NWS before and we will do it again,” said U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, in a news release. “We do not take lightly the threat NWS poses to our livestock industry, our economy, and our food supply chain. The United States government will use all resources at its disposal to push back NWS, and today’s announcement of a domestic strategy to bolster our border defenses is just the beginning. We have the proven tools, strong domestic and international partnerships, and the grit needed to win this battle.”

The plan uses a five-pronged strategy aimed at controlling animal movement, creating strong surveillance systems, and utilizing proven sterilization techniques. 

1. Stop NWS Spread in Mexico

USDA will continue efforts to reduce NWS northern expansion in Mexico. In May, USDA announced a $21 million investment to renovate an existing fruit fly production facility in Mexico. In addition, USDA plans to collaborate with Mexico for improved surveillance and data collection. 

The department also aims to break down regulatory roadblocks, update existing animal health technical agreements with Mexico, and conduct a robust audit of Mexico’s animal health controls. 

2. Protect the U.S. Border

If allowed to enter the U.S., NWS could have devastating effects on the cattle industry. To protect the border, USDA plans to create a “barrier zone of vigilance” by enhancing public outreach and communications. USDA will also oversee Mexico’s strategic trapping as an early warning intervention. 

In addition, the department will collaborate with state wildlife agencies to prioritize wildlife surveillance, ensure National Veterinary Services Laboratories are ready to test for NWS, and remain vigilant for stray or illegally introduced livestock on the border. 

3. Maximize USDA Readiness

To ensure a prompt reaction should a domestic detection of NWS occur, the USDA will collaborate with state animal health officials on emergency management plans and readiness trainings. The department is working to ensure sufficient treatment options are available and preparations are in place for emergency responses. 

4. Take the Fight to the Screwworm

Eradication through the use of sterile NWS flies remains the most effective control method. To expand production of sterile flies, USDA plans to immediately begin construction on a sterile insect dispersal facility. The $8.5 million facility will be located on Moore Air Base in south Texas, and should be completed by the end of 2025. In addition, USDA is evaluating the potential for a domestic sterile fly production facility. If built, this facility could increase sterile fly production by up to 300 million flies per week. 

USDA continues to support Mexico’s renovation of its sterile insect facility and explore other options for ramping up production.

5. Innovate for Eradication

USDA aims to continue developing treatments, preventatives, and response strategies through research and partnerships with land-grant universities in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. Potential plans include developing better traps and lures, assessing potential e-beam and other radiation technology, and exploring next generation treatments.