San Angelo City officials, along with a Texas Agrilife specialist, held a news conference Tuesday afternoon to address the recent increase in New World Screwworm cases, which pose a threat to livestock.
The presence of this livestock pest was recently confirmed in Tom Green County, and the officials discussed their ongoing efforts to mitigate their spread.
City Emergency Management Coordinator Jose Rivera answered questions, along with Texas Agrilife Extension Specialist Jake Thorn, as well as Producers Livestock Official Charlie Christian.
Officials said there is no reason to panic, as more tools are available than were used during the last infestation several years ago. Officials at the Texas Animal Health Commission are spearheading the effort to quell the outbreak by using sterile flies, which are an effective in stopping the infestation.
They explained what producers need to do when their area is considered an infestation area. More information on the infestation is on the City of San Angelo website at “sanangelo.gov/screwworm.” The web page also lists a hotline number to reach Texas Animal Health officials.
The local officials also announced their will be a screwworm eradication and education event at the San Angelo Fairgrounds on June 29th at 5:30 pm. They ask for RSVP’s by June 26th for the event through the local Agrilife office.
