The Newcomb Barrenador worm infestation is rapidly becoming one of the most pressing issues facing livestock farmers in Central America and Mexico. With its larvae wreaking havoc on cattle, the consequences extend beyond just animal health, impacting the economies of regions heavily reliant on livestock production.
Recent warnings from agricultural leaders highlight the seriousness of the situation. Tey Mollinedo Cano, who heads the Southern Border Affairs Committee, plans to hold a forum titled “The Barrenador Worm and Its Impacts on the Southern Border” on March 14, 2025, to address the alarming developments. This forum aims to educate farmers and authorities on prevention and control measures as well as proper wound management to mitigate the infestation’s effects on livestock. "It's important for lawmakers to contribute to policies, laws, and strategies to prevent the spread of the Barrenador fly, as Chiapas and Tabasco are important producers of calves," declared Karina Margarita del Río Zenteno, highlighting the need for urgent action.
The urgency of addressing this problem is exemplified by alarming figures reported recently. Early 2025 saw nine human cases reported within five weeks, with men and older adults being the primary victims. While there have been no confirmed human cases related to the Barrenador worm in Mexico, vigilance is key, especially as warnings of infestations have emerged across border states.
David Cruz Sánchez, a livestock producer from El Chilamatal, expressed his concerns about the infestation affecting his cattle. Five of his cows, including one just after calving, have shown signs of infestation, leading to serious anxiety over their health and productivity. "The worm weakens the cattle, and they eat less. Even after treatment, the worm reappears after three days. I'm worried it will spread to other farms and even affect domestic animals and humans," Cruz said.
The infestation's economic ramifications are staggering. Since late 2024, when the Barrenador worm first surged, the Mexican livestock industry already estimates losses over 14 billion pesos. The northern states, particularly Durango, Sonora, and Chihuahua, have been severely impacted, with approximately 400,000 heads of cattle awaiting export. Álvaro Bustillos, president of the Regional Cattlemen’s Union of Chihuahua, commented, "Right now, the delay of these 400,000 heads means about 700 million dollars lost. We are still waiting for the U.S. authorities to sign the necessary memorandums for resuming exports."
This standstill, prompted by concerns over cross-border livestock movement, has forced Mexican ranchers to seek alternative solutions to treat their cattle. The implementation of ivermectin and the creation of quarantine protocols have been discussed to curb the worm's spread. "We are working closely with the Secretary of Agriculture and the USDA to address these issues effectively," Bustillos noted.
Efforts are underway, with the National Service for Health, Safety and Food Quality (Senasica) reporting numerous infestation cases, especially from Chiapas, which currently leads the list with fourteen recorded outbreaks. The Secretary of Agriculture, Julio Berdegué, emphasizes their commitment to eradicaying the problem, stating, "Authorities have been mobilizing to stop the outbreak and have started releasing sterile flies as part of eradication efforts." This initiative, set to take place primarily around Tapachula, aims to disrupt the pest lifecycle significantly.
Farmers are reminded of their role in preventing the Barrenador worm infestations. Regular monitoring of livestock for signs of infection is emphasized. Outra frases are suggested as preventive measures, including maintaining strict hygiene, treating wounds, and early reporting of unusual symptoms to health authorities.
Humberto Hernández, coordinator of health education at Panama's Ministry of Agro-Development (MIDA), urges producers to stay aware of potential risks, especially after recovering from pandemic-related losses. "Producers should recognize symptoms like wounds, which can become infection hotspots due to fly eggs," Hernández stressed. He also highlighted the coordination necessary between farmers and health officials for timely interventions.
The threat of the Barrenador worm is not just limited to livestock; its impacts could ripple through local economies and public health. Education and rapid response are probably the best tools producers and authorities have against this growing challenge. The upcoming forum aims to shed light on collaborative efforts, emphasizing the significance of keeping communities informed and engaged as they battle this infestation together.