New World Screwworm continues to be a concern at the ag producer and government levels, so the US Department of Agriculture has created a new information website.
Screwworm.gov is designed to centralize all federal information about the pest, with the State Department, Food and Drug Administration, Environmental Protection Agency, Energy and Homeland Security all collaborating with the USDA. There is a range of stakeholders in mind including producers, animal health officials, veterinarians, wildlife professionals, healthcare providers, researchers, drug manufacturers and the general public, including pet owners. This includes USDA-verified information on cases, US preparedness efforts and response efforts in Mexico.
Screwworm larvae can burrow into living animals, causing serious to deadly damage. The main health concerns are for livestock, pets and wildlife, but USDA says screwworms can also impact birds and, more rarely, people. It is being considered as a threat to the nation’s food supply and national security.
