By Belize Live News Staff: A second case of the New World Screwworm has been confirmed in Belize, with the discovery occurring in the Toledo District. The case, detected a week ago, was announced by Minister of Agriculture Jose Mai, who outlined the measures being taken to address the issue.
Minister Mai revealed that the screwworm case was identified deep in central Toledo, surprising officials due to its location. Teams from BAHA, extension officers, and the Belize Livestock Producers’ Association (BLPH) are combing the area, conducting house-to-house and farm-to-farm campaigns to identify additional cases.
“So far, no other cases have been found,” said Mai, who also pointed to two potential sources of the outbreak: wildlife and cattle movement from neighboring Guatemala. Efforts are underway to inspect animals along the border to prevent further spread. Officials have also set up a control station at Bella Vista, a strategic location chosen to regulate the flow of animals in and out of the district.
Mai stressed the importance of thoroughly inspecting and treating animals before they cross into Belize to ensure containment of the disease. The Ministry remains vigilant as containment and prevention efforts continue.
