The state of Puebla has accumulated 42 cases of screwworm, of which ten are active, revealed the National Service of Health, Safety, and Agrifood Quality (Senasica).
The report indicates that the accumulated cases during the period from November 20, 2024, to October 18, 2025, are concentrated in the municipalities of San Sebastián Tlacotepec, Zoquitlán, Eloxochitlán, Molcaxac, Tecamachalco, and Tetela de Ocampo.
The altars represent one of the most authentic and profound manifestations of the pre-Hispanic tradition that still endures in our state.
The Puebla State Agrifood Authority explained that the screwworm outbreak primarily affects small producers, whom it urged to take measures to prevent the spread of the pest.
“It’s an important issue. It’s hit us hard in the Sierra Negra region, closer to Veracruz. Between 15 and 30 cases of this worm have been detected. The important thing here is the prevention measures taken by the producers themselves (…) it can be a potential problem if there’s no treatment, if there’s no good hygiene management,” he commented.
Of the eleven states where 8,632 cases were recorded, Puebla ranks eighth nationwide, behind Oaxaca, Chiapas, Tabasco, Yucatán, Veracruz, Campeche, and Quintana Roo.
The president of the Puebla Agrifood Cluster added that the worm outbreak has generated uncertainty that, combined with other factors, could impact the cost of beef; however, epidemiological surveillance measures are already in place to contain the cases.
“Aside from this situation, like the tomato, that creates a lot of uncertainty, we’ve seen that, especially in the livestock industry, head thefts can also affect the increase in meat prices in the state,” he commented.
In an interview, the agroindustrial sector representative acknowledged the support of health authorities in controlling the pest in this area of the country.
“We have a lot of help from Senasica and the Ministry of Rural Development to combat the issue. The main thing is that attacking the animal, let’s say infected, leads to a good process. Therefore, small producers are strongly encouraged to ensure that they closely monitor all their animals,” he commented.
Source: milenio
