Texas now offering free online course to help combat New World screwworms

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has announced a new, no-cost digital training program designed to rapidly increase the state’s force of certified New World Screwworm inspectors.  This latest push is fueled by a recent re-emergence of the New World Screwworm, a highly destructive parasite that puts the state’s $15 billion cattle market at risk.

The educational platform features instructional videos, lesson guides, and diagnostic quizzes focused on proper identification, official reporting protocols, and livestock treatment methods.  Individuals who successfully pass the comprehensive final examination will receive official state certification, authorizing them to inspect herds and issue the mandatory transit permits farmers need to move their stock.

The newly unveiled online curriculum was co-developed through a joint effort by Texas A&M Agrilife, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC), and the Texas Parks and Wildlife.  The initiative arrives at a critical point for the Texas livestock sector, providing a dual benefit: it opens new revenue opportunities for local animal health specialists while offering vital economic protection for ranchers struggling to secure their livelihoods.  If the outbreak spreads unchecked, the resulting supply disruptions could drive up the cost of beef for everyday consumers even more.

The initial rollout of the certification program is strictly limited to local, county, and state veterinarians alongside authorized agricultural officials.  However, state leaders encourage the public, including independent ranchers and students, to access the course materials for general educational purposes to help increase community awareness across the state.

To prevent the parasite from spreading across state lines, agricultural officials have implemented strict movement controls.  Livestock owners operating inside designated infestation zones are now legally required to obtain an official transit certificate before moving any animals out of the restricted areas.  Both Gillespie and Kerr counties are included in Infestation Zone 03.

As of Monday, the number of New World Screwworm cases in Texas has risen to 10.  Eleven cases have been confirmed in the U.S. following a confirmed case in southeastern New Mexico.

The parasite feeds on mammals.  The New World Screwworm is a flesh-eating larvae that infests open wounds on warm-blooded animals.  Once the eggs hatch, the larvae feed on living tissue, causing severe injury, and in some cases, death if left untreated.