By Belize Live News Staff: Belize’s agricultural authorities are investigating a suspected case of New World Screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) in the southwestern Toledo District, the Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA) and the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security, and Enterprise (MAFSE) said on Saturday.
Technical teams have been dispatched to conduct investigations, and the public will be kept updated, according to a joint statement from the two agencies.
The New World Screwworm, a parasitic pest that infests wounds in animals, poses significant risks to livestock, wildlife, and pets. Authorities have urged producers, transporters, and the public to follow preventive measures, including regular inspection of animals, early reporting of suspected cases, wound treatment, and controlling the movement of animals.
The public has been advised to immediately report cases of myiasis (infestation of wounds by larvae) to BAHA, MAFSE, or a healthcare provider. The movement of livestock and pets should occur only during daylight hours and with proper health inspection certificates and permits.
“Any person who contravenes the New World Screwworm Prevention, Control, and Eradication Regulations faces a fine of up to $5,000 or imprisonment of up to three years,” BAHA said.
The New World Screwworm has continued to spread across Central America, largely due to the illegal movement of animals, the statement noted.
Cases of suspected larval infestations can be reported to BAHA’s Animal Health Department in Central Farm at +501-824-4872, in Orange Walk at +501-302-1388, or via WhatsApp at +501-670-7003. Further inquiries can be directed to animalhealth@baha.org.bz.
