North American Success Story

United States (1957-1966)

The United States was the first country to achieve complete eradication of the New World Screwworm, pioneering the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT). Starting in Florida in 1957, the program expanded to cover the entire southeast by 1959 and the southwest by 1966. The economic impact was substantial:

Mexico (1972-1991)

Mexico's eradication program was crucial for maintaining the US success:

Map showing endemic screwworm regions in the Americas

Geographic distribution of the New World Screwworm

Central American Campaign

Systematic Elimination

Central America achieved systematic elimination through coordinated efforts:

  • Guatemala (1988-1994)
  • Belize (1988-1994)
  • El Salvador (1991-1995)
  • Honduras (1991-1995)
  • Nicaragua (1992-1999)
  • Costa Rica (1995-2000)
  • Panama (1997-2000)

Panama Barrier Zone

The Panama barrier zone represents a crucial firewall between North and South America:

  • Requires 40 million sterile flies per week
  • More efficient than previous Mexican barrier
  • Natural geographical advantages
  • No roads through Darien Gap

Caribbean Situation

Current Endemic Areas

Several Caribbean nations still face screwworm challenges:

South American Initiative

$3.6B

Potential annual benefits from eradication

76%

Of Uruguayan farmers plan around screwworm season

$150M

Annual losses in Uruguay alone

Current Initiatives

Uruguay is leading South American efforts: