Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has called for increased animal surveillance after new cases of New World screwworm were confirmed in Tamaulipas, a Mexican border state. Mexico’s animal health authority, SENASICA, recently reported 16 total cases, with 13 currently active. The U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed that one of these is the northernmost active case in Mexico and is now only 197 miles from the Texas border.
With the outbreak moving closer to Texas, Commissioner Miller urged livestock producers in border regions to remain vigilant and take steps to protect their animals. In his statement, Miller said:
“Now is the time for Texas producers to stay sharp and be prepared. The Texas Department of Agriculture, working alongside our state and federal partners, is fully engaged in enhanced surveillance, coordination, and response planning. But protecting Texas agriculture starts on the ranch, and we need producers to be our first line of defense.
I urge all ranchers and owners of warm-blooded animals, from cattle to exotic game, to strengthen biosecurity practices now, even out of an abundance of caution. That means closely inspecting animals for wounds, watching for unusual behavior or signs of infestation, promptly treating injuries, and immediately reporting any suspected screwworm infestation.
Early detection is our strongest weapon. Texas agriculture is tough and resilient—but resilience begins with readiness.”
The Texas Department of Agriculture manages pest control efforts and promotes food supply safety throughout the state. It oversees programs across all 254 counties in Texas and supports rural communities through economic development initiatives and grants. The department also regulates pesticides to protect public health.
Commissioner Sid Miller leads the agency from its headquarters in Austin as it works to safeguard consumers and support agriculture statewide.