The Government of Panama has declared a preventive animal health emergency across the entire country in response to the increasing outbreaks of cattle screwworms.
The Ministry of Agricultural Development formalized this measure during a meeting between the Ministry’s head, Augusto Valderrama, and Michon Oubichon, the associate deputy administrator of the United States’ Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (Aphis).
Experts from Copeg presented information during the meeting, highlighting the rise in cases of this disease affecting cattle.
The increase is attributed to factors such as the ongoing pandemic and climate variability.
Valderrama explained that the resolution was enacted, which signifies a shared responsibility between the Panamanian and U.S. governments.
The Copeg program has been jointly managed for the past 25 years, effectively combating this scourge that affects livestock and poses a risk to other species, including humans.
Over the years, this program has saved billions of dollars annually for Panama, Central America, the United States, and Canada by preventing diseases and damage to the agricultural sector.
The minister called upon all livestock farmers in Panama to actively identify their animals, promptly report any cases of illness, and ensure proper treatment of animal wounds.
Copeg is currently focused on dispersing sterile flies in the eastern and jungle province of Darien, as well as in the provinces of West Panama and the country’s central regions, as part of their ongoing efforts to combat the outbreak.