Texas Governor Abbott Declares Disaster Amid New World Screwworm Threat

Governor Greg Abbott has declared a statewide disaster in Texas following the detection of the New World screwworm in Zavala County. This parasite poses a significant risk to livestock, leading to previous livestock crossing shutdowns in Santa Teresa, New Mexico. The declaration allows for the mobilization of state resources, including the establishment of a new sterile screwworm production facility in Edinburg. Uvalde and Zavala counties will receive prioritized assistance, and residents are urged to inspect their livestock for wounds to prevent infestations. Additionally, Hudspeth County has issued its own disaster declaration as a precautionary measure.

Key Details: • Governor Abbott's disaster declaration was made on Friday. • Residents should inspect livestock and pets for wounds to prevent screwworm infestations. • Suspected infestations can be reported to the Texas Animal Health Commission at 1-800-550-8242. • Hudspeth County has also declared a disaster due to concerns over agriculture and livestock.