Screwworm infestations accelerate in Mexico with 157 cases in Sonora

The spread of the screwworm (gusano barrenador) is accelerating in Mexico, with 157 cases reported in the state of Sonora as of late September. Specialist Consuelo Almazán noted that while the United States has managed to keep its case count below 100 since the parasite arrived three months ago, Mexico faces a more rapid dispersion. There are concerns regarding potential underreporting of cases in Mexico by approximately 10 percent.

Efforts to control the plague include the production of sterile flies, though officials acknowledge this process will take time. Cecilia Ramírez Montoya, the Mayor of Guasave, emphasized that the pest does not respect borders, making eradication difficult. Authorities are calling on livestock producers and pet owners to monitor animals for wounds or sores and to report suspicious lesions immediately to aid in early detection and containment.