Belize Agriculture Minister Calls for Reporting of New World Screwworm Cases Amid Rising Infections

What's Happening?

The Minister of Agriculture in Belize, Jose Abelardo Mai, has issued a public appeal urging residents to report cases of the new world screwworm, a parasitic fly that has been spreading across the country. The first cases were detected in late December 2024, primarily in the Toledo District near the Guatemalan border. Since then, the screwworm has affected a wide range of animals, including cattle, sheep, goats, horses, dogs, cats, and wildlife such as howler monkeys. As of mid-August 2025, there have been over 300 confirmed cases in animals. Recently, Belize confirmed its first human cases, involving a 21-year-old and a 60-year-old, who were treated with manual extraction of larvae, ivermectin, and antibiotics. Minister Mai emphasized the importance of reporting cases to maintain accurate data, which is crucial for the country's trade agreements.

Why It's Important?

The spread of the new world screwworm in Belize poses significant challenges for the country's agriculture and public health sectors. The infestation affects livestock, which is a critical component of Belize's economy, potentially impacting trade and food security. The confirmation of human cases raises public health concerns, necessitating prompt reporting and treatment to prevent further spread. Accurate reporting is essential for Belize to fulfill its obligations under international trade agreements, ensuring transparency with trading partners. The situation underscores the need for public awareness and cooperation in managing the outbreak effectively.

What's Next?

The Belizean government is likely to intensify efforts to educate the public on the importance of reporting screwworm cases. This may involve community outreach and collaboration with local organizations to ensure comprehensive data collection. The government might also explore additional measures to control the spread, such as increased surveillance and potential quarantine zones. International assistance or collaboration with neighboring countries could be considered to address the cross-border nature of the infestation. The response will require coordination between agricultural, health, and environmental agencies to mitigate the impact on both human and animal populations.