Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott has instructed the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) and the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) to form a joint response team to tackle the New World screwworm threat. This directive comes in light of the parasite's recent spread from Central America into southern Mexico, which poses a significant risk to Texas livestock and wildlife.

"The recent northward spread of the New World screwworm from Central America into southern Mexico poses a serious threat to Texas livestock and wildlife," Governor Abbott stated in his letter. He emphasized the importance of proactive measures, directing TPWD and TAHC to create a Texas New World Screwworm Response Team.

The mission outlined for this team is "to lead Texas’ prevention and response efforts and ensure that Texas remains informed, prepared, and aligned to prevent the re-emergence of this destructive parasite." Governor Abbott assured that they are ready "to protect our land, livestock, and wildlife."