Texas Unites with Latin American Experts to Combat New World Screwworm Threat – A Major Livestock Protection Initiative!

Published on December 13, 2025

In a bold step to safeguard both public health and livestock across the region, Texas hosted a groundbreaking two-day summit with agricultural and epidemiological leaders from Latin America. The meeting was focused on the growing threat of the New World screwworm, a pest that can devastate cattle, livestock, and even pets. Held in Austin, Texas, the gathering brought together experts from Mexico, Central America, and the U.S. to strategize on how to detect and control this harmful pest before it spreads further.

The event, organized by the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) alongside federal agencies and regional producer organizations, is a significant part of ongoing efforts to prevent the screwworm’s resurgence along the U.S.-Mexico border. This meeting was part of the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program, aimed at fostering international cooperation and enhancing agricultural safety practices.

Strengthening Cross-Border Surveillance to Prevent Screwworm Infiltration

The primary objective of the summit was to reinforce cross-border surveillance and develop cohesive strategies for early detection and rapid response. Experts discussed the latest advancements in control technologies, including genetic manipulation and sterile insect techniques. These efforts are seen as essential to halting the spread of the screwworm, which has historically posed a serious threat to both livestock and human health.

Texas, known for its agricultural prowess and leadership in pest management, has long been at the forefront of efforts to combat the screwworm. Officials from the Texas Department of Agriculture emphasized the state’s innovative surveillance systems, which have been instrumental in preventing past outbreaks. Their work is not only vital to Texas’ own agricultural industry but serves as a model for the rest of the region.

A Unified Approach to Livestock Health Protection

The summit provided a platform for diverse stakeholders from across Latin America to come together, share best practices, and develop unified strategies for livestock protection. Representatives from Mexico, Central America, and the United States discussed potential joint operations to strengthen biosecurity measures along the U.S.-Mexico border, where the risk of reinfestation is highest.

“Protecting our farm animals, pets, and the public from this pest is a collective responsibility,” Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller stated. During the meeting, he reinforced the need for international cooperation in combating the screwworm. “We are all united in this fight. There are no positives when screwworms spread, and we all want the same outcome: to protect our livestock and ensure public health,” he remarked.

The Future of Screwworm Control and Regional Collaboration

The discussions also highlighted the importance of regional collaboration in managing the screwworm threat. Experts agreed that a strong partnership between countries, coupled with the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, is key to ensuring that the pest does not spread across the Americas. Several proposed actions were identified, including the enhancement of multinational reporting systems and more robust public awareness campaigns about the dangers of the screwworm.

Commissioner Miller emphasized that they could not afford to act alone and stated that the issue was not just about Texas, but about protecting the entire region and the agricultural economy that sustains them.

A Major Step Towards Global Livestock Protection

By bringing together experts from across Latin America and the United States, Texas is sending a powerful message about the importance of global cooperation in tackling agricultural pests and diseases. The summit also underscored the critical role that innovation plays in modern pest control strategies. With a unified approach, regional authorities are better equipped to face challenges such as the New World screwworm, which threatens the agricultural security of several nations.

With the successful conclusion of this summit, Texas and its partners are poised to continue leading efforts to control the screwworm threat. The state remains committed to advancing pest control technologies and fostering international cooperation to ensure the health of livestock and public safety across the region.

A Bright Future for Regional Agricultural Security

Looking ahead, the Texas Department of Agriculture plans to continue its work with regional partners to monitor and mitigate any future threats. The strong ties formed during this summit are expected to pave the way for even more collaboration on agricultural issues in the future. Texas, with its advanced surveillance systems and commitment to livestock protection, is set to remain a key player in the battle against the New World screwworm and other agricultural challenges.

As this initiative progresses, it stands as a model for how agricultural leaders can work together to face common threats. The cooperation seen at this summit is not just a win for Texas, but for the entire region, ensuring that the New World screwworm remains under control, and that livestock health continues to thrive in the Americas.