Texas is expanding its efforts to combat the New World Screwworm by launching a free online training course designed to increase the number of certified inspectors across the state.
Governor Greg Abbott announced the new program on June 13. The course, developed by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service through its AgriLife Learn platform, will allow more Texans to inspect animals and certify the documentation required for livestock movement. State officials say the program is intended to help protect the livestock industry while keeping cattle and livestock commerce moving without interruption.
The training, known as New World Screwworm Preparedness and Response Education, was developed in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC), and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
The four-hour online course includes training on screwworm biology and life cycles, animal inspection procedures, treatment protocols, surveillance and reporting requirements, and livestock movement regulations. Participants complete narrated lessons, demonstration videos, and knowledge assessments before taking a final exam.
Individuals who meet Texas Animal Health Commission eligibility requirements and successfully complete the course may apply to become certified New World screwworm inspectors. Certified inspectors are authorized to issue official treatment and movement certificates for livestock leaving infested areas.
The first phase of the program opens eligibility to several groups, including:
- Licensed veterinarians not already participating in the Authorized Personnel Program
- Veterinary technicians
- Texas A&M AgriLife Extension agents and Disaster Assessment and Recovery agents
- Texas Department of Agriculture inspectors
- Texas Department of State Health Services meat safety inspectors
- Texas Racing Commission inspectors
- Animal control officers
- Livestock deputies
- Designated personnel working at temporary livestock aggregation points
Livestock owners, ranch managers, veterinarians, government employees, and industry professionals are encouraged to enroll. The course is also available to any Texan interested in learning more about New World screwworm prevention and animal care.
The training comes as Texas continues its response to the threat posed by the New World screwworm. State officials have implemented preventive measures that include sterile fly releases, quarantine zones in affected areas, and expanded surveillance efforts aimed at protecting livestock and wildlife.
What is the New World Screwworm?
The New World screwworm is the larval stage of a parasitic fly that lays eggs in open wounds of warm-blooded animals. Once hatched, the larvae feed on living tissue, causing serious injury if left untreated.
Officials emphasize that the New World screwworm is not contagious and does not spread directly from one animal to another. It is also not a food safety concern, as the parasite does not infest meat or food products intended for consumption.
Reporting Suspected Cases
Anyone who suspects a screwworm infestation should report it immediately.
- Livestock and pets: Texas Animal Health Commission, 1-800-550-8242
- Wildlife: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, 512-389-4505
- More information can be found at https://screwworm.gov
Additional information is available at the federal screwworm information website and through Texas A&M AgriLife Extension resources. You can also watch an interview with Dr Sonja Swiger who discusses ways to control the threat of the New World Screwworm.
