Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas launches cattle screwworm containment plan

The Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas (UAT), through its Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, has launched an institutional epidemiological containment and rapid response plan to combat the cattle screwworm (GBG). The pest, caused by the larvae of the Cochliomyia hominivorax fly, poses a critical risk to both public health and the livestock sector.

Led by Rector Dámaso Anaya Alvarado, the initiative involves collaboration between the UAT, the Tamaulipas state government, municipal authorities, SENASICA, SADER, and local livestock associations. The contingency plan focuses on several strategic areas, including university-led brigades that provide training and awareness to small and medium-sized producers in vulnerable rural communities. Training covers wound disinfection and early identification of the fly.

Additionally, the plan includes epidemiological monitoring through a network of specialized traps to capture adult flies. Collected specimens are analyzed in UAT laboratories for taxonomic classification to issue early warnings. UAT specialists are also providing field veterinary medical attention to animals suffering from myiasis.