How do you know if the information you're hearing is actually true? In this episode, Sheila and Gretta talk about the challenge of separating credible information from misinformation before sitting down with Dr. Alan Huddleston, USDA APHIS U.S. Chief Veterinary Officer, to discuss New World screwworm. They cover how it spreads, what producers should watch for, reporting requirements, treatment and—most importantly for turkey farmers—how susceptible turkeys are and what the current risk looks like.
In this episode of The Turkey Talk Show, Sheila and Gretta explore an issue every turkey farmer faces: How do you know if the information you’re hearing is accurate?
The conversation begins with a story about a convincing - but completely fictional - Facebook post about Sheila’s hometown high school mascot. The story sounded legitimate because it was built around real history, real people and a real debate. The experience serves as a reminder that misinformation isn't always obviously false, it can be believable enough that we don't stop to question it.
That leads into a conversation about agriculture, where farmers encounter information from social media, other farmers, research, industry organizations, government agencies and other sources. The hosts emphasize the importance of checking sources and being willing to say, “I don’t know yet. Let me find out.”
The episode then turns to New World screwworm, with Dr. Alan Huddleston, U.S. Chief Veterinary Officer with USDA APHIS. Dr. Huddleston explains what New World screwworm is, how it spreads, which animals have been affected, reporting requirements, treatment options and the level of risk to poultry and turkeys.
1. Don't confuse “sounds right” with “is right.”
Information can look and sound legitimate while still being completely false.
2. Check multiple sources.
When something doesn't seem quite right, look for confirmation from credible sources rather than relying on one social media post, conversation or article.
3. “I don't know yet. Let me find out.” is a good answer.
Farmers don't have to immediately accept or reject information. Sometimes the best response is to investigate further.
4. New World screwworm is serious, but the risk to turkeys is currently considered very low.
Dr. Huddleston explains that turkeys are susceptible because they are warm-blooded animals, but turkey management practices make an infestation very rare. No poultry cases had been identified in the U.S. at the time of the interview.
5. Producers need to know what to watch for.
Suspected signs include maggots or white egg masses, foul odor and signs of pain. Suspected cases should be reported.
6. Reliable information is available.
Dr. Huddleston recommends Screwworm.gov, state veterinarians and the National Turkey Federation as resources for current information.
*Demon Miners photo from Matt Foster's Full Body Tattoo Facebook page. Fly image from USDA.