Belize Declared Under “Extremely High” Alert for New World Screwworm

Following confirmed cases of New World Screwworm (NWS) in Guatemala, Belize is raising its alert level to extremely high. The cases were found in cattle around Los Amates, Izabal, just 44 miles from the Belize-Guatemala border.

The Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA) warns that “New World Screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) is a parasite that can affect all mammals, including humans.” The parasite poses significant risks to health, food security, and livelihoods due to its rapid spread, often linked to the illegal movement of animals.

To prevent the spread of NWS, BAHA urges farmers and the public to regularly inspect their animals and control tick infestations, treat all wounds on animals—including during procedures like dehorning, castration, and branding—report any animals with lesions or visible maggots, and avoid transporting animals with wounds. 

BAHA advises the public to make immediate reports of suspected larval infestations. Individuals can contact BAHA’s Animal Health Department at 302-1388 in Orange Walk, 824-4872 in Central Farm, or via text at 670-7003.