Mexico captures 16 million screwworm flies using artisanal traps

Mexico is implementing a national strategy to combat the cattle screwworm fly (gusano barrenador) through the use of over 600,000 artisanal traps. Developed by the Ministry of Agriculture (Sader) and the Sembrando Vida program, these traps utilize reused plastic bottles and an organic attractant made from beef liver and water. The initiative has successfully captured 16 million flies and involves the participation of more than 400,000 farmers.

Regional impacts vary. In Jalisco, authorities have inspected over 158,000 animals and provided preventive treatments to thousands of livestock to strengthen epidemiological surveillance. Meanwhile, in Chihuahua, the pest has caused significant concern for producers; over 137 cases have been reported across 27 municipalities. The outbreak has contributed to economic uncertainty, as the presence of the pest has influenced livestock border closures with the United States, with some estimates suggesting potential economic losses of approximately $1 billion due to restricted exports.

The national response is coordinated by the National Service for Agrifood Health, Safety and Quality (Senasica) and includes the formation of a National Commission for the Attention of the Cattle Screwworm, alongside 23 state committees to ensure a unified response across the country.