BAHA to implement mandatory inspection at ports of entry for all animals/animal products
by Kristen Ku
BELIZE CITY, Mon. July 24, 2023
On Wednesday, July 19, the Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA) issued a press release, advising its partners, stakeholders, and the public that it is closely monitoring the outbreak of New World screwworms in Central America.
“Panama has declared a State of Zoosanitary Emergency and reported cases in cattle, pigs, dogs, and horses. Costa Rica has reported a single case in a dog. The possibility of re-introduction of the parasite into Belize is a potential threat to the livestock, small stock and avian industries, wildlife, and humans,” the release said.
The screwworm is a dangerous parasite that affects all mammals, including humans. Female flies are attracted to wounds and exposed mucous membranes, where they lay eggs. Within a short period, the larvae hatch and begin feeding on the host’s skin and underlying tissues, causing traumatic myiasis, a potentially fatal condition.
The economic impact of screwworm infestations on livestock can be substantial, with estimated annual losses of approximately USD 3.6 billion in South America alone in 2005. Thankfully, Belize and other regions have effectively implemented eradication programs to combat this destructive pest, with Belize fully eradicating screwworms in 1992.
In the press release, BAHA also noted that in order to maintain a screwworm-free Belize, it must implement mandatory veterinary inspection at ports of entry for all animals, especially those from the affected countries. They also remind the public of the seriousness of illegal animal and animal product importation.
“The public is reminded that the illegal importation of animals and animal products remains a threat to the health, safety, food security, and livelihood of all Belizeans,” it stated.
In the past, efforts to eradicate New World screwworms in certain regions have been successful through the implementation of the Area-Wide Integrated Pest Management (AW-IPM) approach and the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT). However, vigilance remains crucial in preventing the re-establishment of the parasite and protecting the nation’s agricultural interests.
BAHA, in collaboration with its partners and stakeholders, is working diligently to safeguard the country from the potential reintroduction of the New World screwworm.
The collective effort of the public and authorities is vital in preserving the health and well-being of Belize’s agricultural sector and the overall community.