Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) announced the launch of a free online course to expand the number of certified New World screwworm (NWS) inspectors across Texas. This course will allow more Texans to inspect their animals and certify the documentation required to safely move them, which is critical to ensuring cattle and livestock commerce continues uninterrupted.
The first-of-its-kind program was developed by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension in partnership with USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC), and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD).
“The State of Texas will use every tool to protect our cattle industry and wildlife while we eradicate this pest,” Abbott said. “AgriLife and TAHC moved quickly to launch this training. Now more people, including private industry, will be able to inspect and certify animals for movement. Through this program, Texas will protect our ranchers, ensure the security of our food supply, and keep business strong.”
The course is an online, modular program delivered through the AgriLife Learn platform. It includes narrated modules, demonstration videos, and knowledge checks covering NWS biology and life cycle, surveillance and reporting, species-specific inspection and treatment protocols, roles of state and federal agencies, and movement permitting requirements.
Those meeting TAHC eligibility standards who pass the final exam may apply to become a TAHC certified NWS inspector, authorized to issue official NWS treatment/movement certificates for lawful movement of livestock out of infested zones.
Phase one immediately opens eligibility to the following groups, in addition to existing authorized personnel, including thousands of Texas veterinarians:
• Licensed veterinarians (not already in the Authorized Personnel Program).
• Veterinary technicians.
• Texas A&M AgriLife Extension agents and Disaster Assessment and Recovery agents.
• Texas Department of Agriculture inspectors.
• Texas Department of State Health Services Meat Safety inspectors.
• Texas Racing Commission inspectors.
• Animal control officers.
• Livestock deputies.
• Designated personnel from temporary livestock aggregation points.
Additional groups may be added in future phases as the program evolves. The course is also available to any Texan for educational purposes.
Livestock owners, managers, veterinarians, government personnel and allied industry professionals are encouraged to enroll. To access this free online course at please register an account at tinyurl.com/4etkfhdj, add the course to your cart and check out.
Important facts about NWS:
• NWS is caused by the larvae of a parasitic fly that lay eggs in open wounds. The larvae feed on living tissue of warm-blooded animals.
• NWS is not a contagious disease. It does not spread directly from animal to animal.
• NWS is not a food safety issue. Screwworms do not infest meat or other food products. The food supply remains safe.
Report suspected cases immediately. Cases in livestock or pets may be reported to the TAHC at 1-800-550-8242. Cases in wildlife may be reported to the TPWD at 512-389-4505. — Office of the Texas Governor
