NW screwworm restrictions lifted in local areas

The Texas Animal Health Commission has lifted movement restrictions in the first areas designated as New World screwworm infested zones, the agency said Monday.  The executive director’s order, effective immediately, released restrictions in areas of Gillespie, Kerr, Kimble, La Salle and Webb counties.  Officials said a coordinated response from state, federal, industry, veterinary and local partners provided sufficient evidence that the wild pest population there has been eliminated.

The New World screwworm is a parasitic fly whose larvae feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals, threatening livestock and wildlife.

“We are pleased with the incredible work and cooperation that has led us to the release of these first zones,” said Dr. Bud Dinges, TAHC executive director and Texas State veterinarian.  “While we are certainly celebrating this milestone, we can’t take our eye off the ball and must remain vigilant.”

TAHC and the U.S. Department of Agriculture said they will continue surveillance in the released areas, including sterile fly releases and trapping, and urged landowners to keep monitoring animals for wounds or unusual behavior.

A map of active zones is available on TAHC’s website.  Suspected infestations should be reported to a TAHC regional office at 1-800-550-8242, a Texas Parks and Wildlife biologist at 512-389-4505, or a private veterinarian.