FFAR funds New World screwworm preparedness

As New World screwworm continues spreading, the Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research, Kansas State University, North American Deer Farmers Association, American Sheep Industry Association, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the Kansas Department of Agriculture are investing $269,560 in a Rapid Outcomes from Agricultural Research grant to identify the livestock, wildlife and management practices most vulnerable to infestation. The project will provide producers and animal health officials with evidence-based tools to prioritize surveillance, producer preparedness and improve response efforts in the U.S. The reemergence of New World screwworm in the U.S. presents an urgent threat to U.S. livestock and wildlife. The parasitic fly larvae feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals, causing severe pain, secondary infections and, if untreated, death. To protect U.S. producers’ profitability and the food supply chain, identifying the highest-risk species and production systems is critical to directing resources where they can have the greatest impact. “New World screwworm reemergence in the U.S. makes producer preparedness more important than ever,” said Dr. Jasmine Bruno, FFAR scientific program director. “By identifying where this parasite poses the greatest risk, this research will help producers, animal health officials and veterinarians make faster, more informed decisions to strengthen surveillance, target prevention efforts and reduce impacts.” Led by Dr. Natalia Cernicchiaro, K-State professor of veterinary epidemiology and director of the Center for Outcomes Research and Epidemiology, and Dr. Andrea Dixon, K-State associate director of research and analytical services, researchers are reviewing and conducting a meta-analysis of scientific literature, surveillance records and host distribution data to identify the animal species, production systems and husbandry practices most at risk. The research team will also develop an interactive tool that allows stakeholders to visualize vulnerability across species and production settings, helping guide surveillance and response decisions. “We are thankful for FFAR’s investment and for the strong partnership of our producer organizations and animal health agencies,” said Dr. Cernicchiaro. “Their expertise and collaboration help ensure this research addresses the most pressing questions facing U.S. agriculture. By working together, we can deliver practical, evidence-based information that helps producers and decision-makers better prepare and respond to New World screwworm.” FFAR is investing in this research to support USDA’s research priority on Protecting the Integrity of American Agriculture from Invasive Species. This research aims to identify the species, production systems and management practices most vulnerable to New World screwworm infestation, providing evidence-based guidance to improve surveillance, preparedness and response. FFAR’s ROAR program rapidly funds research and outreach in response to emerging or unanticipated threats to the U.S. food supply or agricultural systems.