US Takes Aggressive Measures Against New World Screwworm Threat
In response to the growing threat of the New World screwworm, which poses significant risks to livestock and wildlife in Texas, the US federal government plans to breed billions of sterile flies and deploy them via air-drops across affected areas. Experts have expressed concerns about the outbreak as it inches closer to the US border, with recent incidents highlighting the severity of the issue, including reports of flesh-eating maggots infiltrating hospitals. To combat this invasive species, Texas agencies have formed a response team and collaborated on a comprehensive eradication strategy, including the establishment of a dedicated facility by the USDA for sterile fly production. The initiative aims to protect livestock and mitigate economic impacts on the cattle industry, which anticipates a rise in beef prices amid the crisis. Furthermore, officials are urging swift action to prevent the screwworm from establishing itself in the region, emphasizing the need for cooperation and science-driven approaches to address this serious agricultural threat.
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