Media: https://media0.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTcyYTQ4YTRmYXV0ZGFncnQzZjFodTlyZWxsNjg0NWVqdDFlbnVzdjc1NWxubHhnNiZlcD12MV9naWZzX3NlYXJjaCZjdD1n/eGxZNRietHrgQXKKOg/giphy.gifTitle: The Resurgence of New World Screwworm: A Threat to U.S. Livestock Industry
The recent decision by USDA Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins to halt all imports of live cattle, horses, and bison from Mexico is a stark reminder of the threat posed by the New World screwworm. This flesh-eating parasite has been detected in southern Mexico over the past year, causing alarm among U.S. officials who are determined to protect their nation’s food supply as well as animal safety.
The New World screwworm is a fly larva that burrows into wounds or mucous membranes of animals and humans (though it rarely affects humans). The maggots feed on the flesh and blood of their host using tiny mouth hooks, which can lead to death if left untreated. In fact, an outbreak in Texas back in 1976 affected over 1.4 million cattle and hundreds of thousands of sheep and goats, costing the state’s economy a staggering $1.8 billion according to USDA analysis.
The U.S. and Mexico had successfully eradicated this pest during the 1960s and ’70s by releasing millions of sterile adult flies that would mate with females, preventing them from laying viable eggs. This strategy created a “barrier zone” that kept the screwworm at bay for decades; however, recent detections in Mexico signal its resurgence.
The potential fallout from another outbreak is why agricultural officials are so concerned about this development. If history repeats itself, it could have devastating consequences not only on livestock numbers but also on the economy of affected regions. As such, halting imports seems like a necessary precaution to prevent further spread and minimize risk.
In conclusion, while the halt in live animal imports may cause temporary disruptions in trade relations between the U.S. and Mexico, it underscores the importance of vigilance when it comes to protecting our nation’s food supply and animal safety. The resurgence of the New World screwworm serves as a stark reminder that we must remain proactive in combating potential threats to our livestock industry before they become full-blown crises.
Source: [Original Article](https://www.npr.org/2025/05/11/nx-s1-5395052/us-livestock-imports-mexico-screwworm-parasitic-fly) #u.s.
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