By Belize Live News Staff: Belize is taking swift and collaborative action to manage a new outbreak of screwworms, a parasitic fly that poses serious threats to livestock and public health. Minister of Agriculture Jose Mai confirmed that while cases remain relatively low—around 50 reported since December 27, 2024—the government is not taking the issue lightly.
Minister Mai emphasized that Belize is one of the only countries in the region not yet receiving sterile fly dispersal, a standard method of controlling the pest. The U.S. controls the distribution of these sterile flies, but for reasons not disclosed, Belize has been excluded. “While we have no sterile flies, we have all power on the ground,” Mai stated, praising local agencies like BLPA, BAHA, and OIRSA for their work in containment.
Mexico, by comparison, is reporting nearly 600 cases, highlighting the effectiveness of Belize’s containment measures. A regional meeting is scheduled for this Saturday in El Salvador to address long-term plans for screwworm eradication. The initiative will involve all Central American nations, from Mexico to Panama, as part of a coordinated response.
This marks the second time in 30 years that the region is launching a comprehensive eradication program against the screwworm threat.
