Texas A&M University has been chosen to lead seven proposals and contribute to seven additional projects to combat the New World screwworm outbreak, thanks to a $105M grant from the USDA.
Research Focus Areas
The projects will focus on four core areas: releasing more sterile worms and creating a more efficient method of release, developing new traps and a more advanced monitoring system, strengthening response and advancing different therapeutics for animals, and developing tools to help monitor wildlife and resistance of the New World screwworm.
As of June 22, there have been 25 confirmed New World screwworm cases in the United States, with 24 being confirmed in Texas. The university has deployed a veterinary emergency response team to help conduct animal inspections, treatments, and sample collection in affected areas.
G. Cliff Lamb, director of AgriLife Research, emphasized the importance of protecting agricultural life in the country and the university’s commitment to serving the community’s needs. Jeffrey W. Savell, the vice chancellor and dean for agriculture and life sciences, said these projects should help strengthen the drive Texas A&M AgriLife has for wildlife and Texan agriculture.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Houston — read the source article.
