Texas will receive federal funds to strengthen livestock inspection capacity as state and federal officials continue efforts to contain and eradicate New World screwworm (NWS).

The funding, made available through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Veterinary Services, will allow the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) to hire additional inspectors.

“Texas will take every action necessary to safeguard our livestock producers and agricultural economy from the New World screwworm,” Gov. Greg Abbott said. “This federal funding allows us to place more inspectors in the field and bolster our state response. I thank Secretary Rollins for her leadership to secure this support.”

This funding allows TAHC to hire 15 new term positions, including 10 field inspectors and specialists in emergency management and epidemiology. The new positions will significantly expand the state’s inspection and containment capacity.

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins said the funding will help ensure adequate resources are available as eradication efforts continue.

“[This] announcement will help us ensure we have ample strategies and resources to identify and combat this pest,” she said.

The announcement is the latest in a series of actions taken by state and federal officials following the detection of New World screwworm in Texas earlier this month.

Abbott previously directed the creation of the Texas NWS Response Team, issued a statewide disaster declaration and activated the State Emergency Operations Center.

Texans are urged to stay vigilant in the fight against NWS.

Inspect livestock and pets for wounds and report suspected cases, including in wildlife, immediately.

For livestock and pets, report to the TAHC’s 24-hour veterinarian call line at 1-800-550-8242.

For wildlife, report to Texas Parks and Wildlife’s 24-hour biologists’ call line at 512-389-4505.

Do not move affected animals.

For the latest updates, guidance and resources, visit TAHC’s website at tahc.texas.gov/emergency/nws.html or the USDA website at screwworm.gov.