Ann Hess shares an update and perspectives on the advancing risk of the New World screwworm and where the risks exist for swine in the U.S. She includes how the changes in the Darien Gap increase risks. The Darien Gap has served as a biological barrier for keeping New World screwworm away from our border.
Source: National Hog Farmer, June 13, 2025. Link. Fly control will be very important and daily surveillance of herds will be needed to identify infested or animals at-risk. While no pigs in Mexico have been infected thus far the disease is concerning for the U.S. swine industry, even if it might not be on pork producers’ radar right now.
The risk of New World screwworm infections in swine will be mostly with outdoor raised pigs, transitionally raised pigs and the risks feral swine pose to commercial operations.”
Related: USDA to open fly dispersal site in Texas to fight screwworm, The Dairy Site, June 20, 2025. Link. Planning has begun to open a sterile fly dispersal facility in Hidalgo County, Texas, as part of the country’s effort to fight the encroachment of New World screwworm.