New World Screwworm
While USDA eradicated New World screwworm from the U.S. in 1966, there’s a constant risk of re-introduction. The parasitic fly larvae eat the living tissue of warm-blooded animals, such as cattle, causing serious, often deadly damage. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association has warned it’s not a matter of if — but when — the pest makes its way back into the U.S.
NCBA applauds Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins’ aggressive efforts to suspend Mexican cattle, horse and bison imports, saying Mexico’s corruption and mismanagement has caused the pest to spread closer to the U.S.
Due to the northward spread of New World Screwworm, a month-by-month suspension is effective immediately and will continue until a significant window of containment is achieved.
Mexico has committed to eliminate restrictions on USDA aircraft and waive customs duties on eradication equipment aiding in the response to the spread of New World Screwworm (NWS).
Mexico has until April 30 to follow protocol to stop the spread of the pest and eliminate current restrictions slowing eradication.
APHIS emphasizes new protocols in place to monitor for the pest before cattle enter the U.S.
The pest can travel on humans, vehicles, pets, livestock and even on some wildlife species — all of which increase the likelihood it could eventually enter our country.
NCBA Policy director urges cattle producers to be diligent and watch for New World screwworm flies.
USDA approves funding to bolster efforts to prevent further spread through surveillance, animal health checkpoints and domestic preparedness.
Two weeks after the pest was detected in a Mexican cow, U.S. officials remain focused on the health and wellness of U.S. livestock.
U.S. and Mexican officials are working together on pre-export inspection protocols before resuming live cattle imports into the U.S. The use of sterile flies is also a priority to help control the spread of NWS in Mexico.
New World Screwworm is a serious veterinary pest that can cause severe damage to livestock and wildlife populations. The detection of New World Screwworm in Mexico and the subsequent USDA actions may have significant implications on trade and travel.