A. M. 
Small-scale cattle farmers in the Nueva Concepción district, in the department of Chalatenango, benefited from a comprehensive bovine care program to protect their livestock from various diseases and parasites. This preventative action strengthens animal health and prevents the spread of the screwworm (SW), one of the main threats to livestock production throughout Central America.
The national campaign is carried out by technicians from the Ministerio de Agricultura y Ganadería (MAG), who visit different livestock farms, applying antiparasitic treatments and vitamin supplements to cattle and pets. If animals are found affected by SW, they provide immediate care to prevent further complications.
“We are providing coverage to seven hamlets in the Potrero Sula canton. We have divided ourselves into six brigades and are treating approximately 800 head of cattle, applying dewormers and treating cases of screwworms. We are also conducting inspections and providing recommendations to all ranchers so they can stay on top of their treatment plans”, explained Ricardo León, the MAG technician in charge of the operation in the area.
“Technicians from the Ministerio de Agricultura y Ganadería are helping us with the cattle in the Potrero Sula canton. They are deworming and providing vitamins, which will help prevent screwworms. We as small ranchers are grateful for the support they are giving us”, commented Melqui Guerra, who recently started in the livestock business with 15 cattle.
One of the main economic activities in this area is agriculture. Ranchers raise cattle primarily for sale, while the milk produced is intended for family consumption, and dairy products, such as cream and cheese, are sold within the area.
Another beneficiary was Óscar Romero, who said: “The importance of these actions is that we can combat and control the screwworm and also keep the animals healthy”.
MAG technician Andrés Avelino Flores explained that during the workshops, livestock farmers are trained in screwworm prevention. “We also inspect the markets to ensure that no animals arrive with worm infestations. If we find a case, we treat it. One of the recommendations is to check your livestock at least twice a day, morning, and evening. If there are lesions, apply worm-killing spray”, he said.
The technicians remind the public that they can report screwworm cases by calling 22020881 and 22020826 or via WhatsApp at 70929718.
