14.9 million sterile flies released against the barrenador worm in Chihuahua; strengthens the training of producers
From July 27 to August 11, 14.9 million sterile flies were released in seven municipalities of Chihuahua to combat the cattle borer worm (GBG). The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (Agricultura) reported that technical teams installed 54 ground dispersion cameras in strategic locations across affected areas. On July 13, the National Service for Animal Health, Safety, and Food Quality (Senasica) confirmed the first case of GBG in Hidalgo del Parral, prompting field actions, surveillance, control, and sterile fly release. Local agricultural authorities and livestock unions deployed teams of 10–15 people per municipality to support federal health authorities in monitoring cases and inspecting nearby properties. Senasica also conducted 18 informational sessions reaching 575 participants and visited 93 points of contact, including veterinary clinics and livestock associations, to promote timely reporting of infestations. Currently, 10 veterinary doctors are deployed in Chihuahua, and coordination efforts with wildlife are being strengthened. Authorities urged ranchers and the public to monitor livestock, pets, and wild animals, treat wounds, and report signs of larvae or GB
On August 12, 2026, authorities in Chihuahua, Mexico, released 14.9 million sterile flies to combat the cattle borer worm, a pest threatening livestock health and economic stability. The initiative targets seven municipalities, Coronado, Rosales, Valle de Allende, Cuauhtémoc, Aldama, Chínipas, and Bachíniva, where efforts have been ongoing since July 27. This measure aims to curb the spread of the infestation and move toward its eradication. The release of sterile flies began on July 27 and continued through August 11, with 54 ground-dispersal units strategically placed to maximize effectiveness. These devices ensure consistent distribution of the flies, which help reduce the population of the cattle borer worm by preventing reproduction. Alongside this biological control method, officials emphasized the importance of community engagement and education. A team of up to 15 individuals was deployed per affected municipality to support federal health authorities in monitoring cases, inspecting nearby properties, and ensuring safe animal movement. The first confirmed case of the cattle borer worm was identified on July 13 in Hidalgo del Parral, prompting immediate action. Since then, field operations, epidemiological surveillance, and the deployment of sterile flies have been intensified. The National Service for Animal Health, Safety, and Food Quality (Senasica) has played a central role in coordinating these efforts, including organizing informational sessions and visiting veterinary clinics and ranch associations to promote early reporting of symptoms. To further strengthen response mechanisms, Senasica has deployed 10 veterinarians across Chihuahua and enhanced coordination with wildlife conservation initiatives. These measures aim to prevent the spread of the pest among both domesticated animals and wild species. Additionally, public awareness campaigns have been launched, urging farmers and the general population to monitor their livestock, treat wounds promptly, and report signs of infestation immediately via designated channels such as a toll-free phone number, WhatsApp chat, and email. From July 27 to August 1, Senasica conducted operational strategy meetings and visited livestock production units near infected areas. These visits were part of broader efforts to assess the situation and adjust containment strategies based on real-time data. The agency also issued advisories encouraging continuous vigilance over cattle, pets, and wild animals, emphasizing the need for swift reporting of any suspected infestations. In a separate development, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced on July 24 the gradual resumption of Mexican beef imports following the impact of the cattle borer worm on hundreds of cattle in border and southern states. The USDA noted that Chihuahua and Sonora pose the lowest risk due to their effective management practices and robust biosecurity protocols. This decision reflects growing confidence in the region’s ability to contain the outbreak and maintain food safety standards. The presence of the cattle borer worm poses a serious threat to the agricultural sector, affecting not only meat production but also export capabilities. Local and national authorities continue to work together to implement a multi-pronged approach, combining biological controls, community education, and regulatory oversight. With ongoing efforts, there is hope that the infestation can be contained, protecting both livelihoods and international trade interests.
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