Yucatán cattle screwworm cases rise to 130 in 19 areas

Yucatán, Mexico — The Yucatán government has confirmed 47 new cases of cattle screwworm infestations across 19 municipalities, bringing the statewide total to 130 confirmed infections. The announcement was made by the Secretariat of Rural Development (Seder) on Saturday.

Outbreak Details and Affected Areas

Of the newly reported cases, 12 remain active, while the rest have been successfully treated. The municipalities of Tzucacab and Tekax were the hardest hit, with 10 and seven cases respectively, all involving cattle. Sucilá reported five cases, affecting both cattle and sheep.

“In Tzucacab, ten cases were detected, including nine in cattle and one in swine. The infected animals ranged in age from 11 days to six years, with lesions found on the ears, vulva, navel, shoulder region, and legs,” Seder stated.

Other municipalities with multiple cases include Mama (four reports), Oxkutzcab, Espita, Huhí, and Tizimín (each with two to three cases). The infections span cattle, swine, sheep, and dogs, with affected animals ranging from three days to 12 years old.

Government Response and Prevention Measures

Seder is coordinating with the National Service for Agrifood Health, Safety, and Quality (Senasica) to contain the outbreak through prompt treatment, free veterinary care, and farm inspections. Interstate animal health checkpoints have been established in seven municipalities, and free sanitary kits have been distributed to local livestock associations.

The kits include handling forceps, preservative alcohol, reporting forms, and wound treatment supplies to facilitate sample collection for analysis.

Seder emphasized that quarantine or culling of infected animals is unnecessary, as timely treatment is effective. The agency urged livestock producers to report any suspected cases immediately.

Vulnerable Species and Public Awareness

The screwworm primarily affects cattle, sheep, swine, poultry, dogs, cats, horses, and goats. Authorities reiterated the importance of early detection and treatment to prevent further spread.