Special to the Bulletin
Gov. Greg Abbott announced June 13 the launch of a free online training course designed to increase the number of certified New World screwworm inspectors in Texas and help protect the state's livestock industry.
Developed by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service through its AgriLife Learn platform, the four-hour course was created in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, the Texas Animal Health Commission and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
The program will allow additional qualified individuals to inspect animals and issue documentation required for livestock movement, helping maintain cattle and livestock commerce if New World screwworm cases increase.
'The State of Texas will use every tool to protect our cattle industry and wildlife while we eradicate this pest,' Abbott said in a statement. 'Texas A&M AgriLife and TAHC moved quickly to launch this training.'
According to the governor's office, those who meet Texas Animal Health Commission eligibility standards and pass a final exam may apply to become certified New World screwworm inspectors authorized to issue official treatment and movement certificates.
Phase 1 eligibility includes licensed veterinarians, veterinary technicians, AgriLife Extension agents, Texas Department of Agriculture inspectors, Texas Department of State Health Services meat safety inspectors, Texas Racing Commission inspectors, animal control officers, livestock deputies and designated personnel at temporary livestock aggregation points.
The course consists of narrated modules, demonstration videos and knowledge checks covering screwworm biology, surveillance and reporting procedures, treatment protocols and movement permit requirements.
Dan Hale, associate director for agriculture and natural resources with AgriLife Extension, said the course is intended both to expand the pool of inspectors and educate the public.
'While the training is designed to help TAHC increase the number of inspectors if the screwworm cases exceed their personnel's capability, the educational training program can be viewed and taken by anyone,' Hale said.
The course is available free of charge through the AgriLife Learn platform.
New World screwworm is caused by the larvae of a parasitic fly that lays eggs in open wounds. The larvae feed on living tissue of warm-blooded animals. Officials emphasized that the pest is not contagious between animals and does not pose a food safety threat.
Suspected cases involving livestock or pets should be reported to the Texas Animal Health Commission at 1-800-550-8242. Suspected cases involving wildlife should be reported to Texas Parks and Wildlife Department at 512-389-4505.
Additional information is available at screwworm. gov.
The release was issued by the Office of the Governor and Texas A&M AgriLife.
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