The Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA) sent out a press release informing the public, especially in Southern Belize, that the Mediterranean Fruit Fly (or Medfly) has been detected in the village of Hopkins in the Stann Creek District and in the Sapodilla Cayes in the Toledo District. As a result of these detections, eradication activities such as fruit stripping, ground spraying, and delimitation trapping are underway in these areas. These activities are important to ensure that the outbreak is contained and that the Medflies are eradicated quickly.
BAHA reminds the public that Belize is the only country in the region that is free of this pest and it is only when infested Medfly hosts, such as fruits and vegetables, are brought into Belize illegally that this pest is introduced. The Medfly is a very devastating pest and Belize could lose its export markets if the Medlfy becomes established and spreads into areas that are producing fruit for export. In addition, the Medfly also causes loss to small entrepreneurs who are unable to sell their fruits such as mango, craboo or guavas locally when areas are placed under quarantine restrictions. It also deprives the population in infested areas from consuming fresh fruits that is a valuable source of nutrition.
BAHA is asking all Belizeans and visitors to respect the law and ensure that fruits or vegetables that are brought into Belize are done so with a valid BAHA import permit.
Help maintain Belize Medfly free!!
