The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) was notified late last fall about the detection of New World screwworm in Mexico. Since then, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) has worked closely with USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to increase surveillance, inspection, and other mitigation efforts. NCBA Chief Veterinarian Dr. Kathy Simmons said they have been working towards expanding the use of the sterile insect technique, which eradicates the species by eliminating the potential for offspring.
Simmons said New World screwworm will be very hard to control if they spread too far.
Unfortunately, authorities in Mexico have not upheld their end of the agreement.
Simmons said the U.S. will be forced to close the border to cattle, bison, and horses if nothing is done.
Simmons added that U.S. producers who are close to the border are already taking steps to monitor for screwworms and prevent them from affecting their herds.
For more information and resources, visit ncba.org/NWS.
