US halts Mexican cattle imports due to new world screwworm outbreak

USA – The United States has temporarily suspended imports of Mexican cattle following the discovery of New World screwworm (NWS) in the southern Chiapas state.

This was reported by Reuters, citing a statement from the Mexican government.

According to the report, the temporary ban was enacted after NWS was detected in a cow at a checkpoint near the town of Catazaja, close to the Guatemalan border. 

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) confirmed on Friday that Mexico’s chief veterinary officer had notified the department about the finding.

In response to the situation, the US and Mexican authorities are collaborating to establish measures that will allow the resumption of cattle exports. 

The USDA clarified that the restrictions currently apply solely to cattle imports and do not affect other Mexican exports. 

Control measures are in place to prevent the further spread of the infestation.

New World screwworm larvae, which are known to infest warm-blooded animals, including humans, can enter through open wounds and feed on living flesh. 

While infestations are often difficult to detect initially, signs such as deepening wounds, larvae, and noticeable discomfort in affected animals may become apparent over time. 

The USDA is working closely with officials in Mexico and Central America to prevent further spread of the parasite. 

The department has also urged livestock owners in the affected regions to monitor their animals and report any suspected cases.

This outbreak could have significant financial implications for Mexico’s cattle industry. 

In the 2022–2023 export period, Mexico shipped nearly US$400 million worth of live cattle to the United States, a 10% increase from the previous cycle. 

Cattle exports to the US come from nine Mexican states that meet US sanitary standards for bovine tuberculosis.

Mexico’s livestock sector saw impressive growth in 2021, expanding by 5.4% in value and 2.2% in volume, making it the fastest-growing segment in the country’s agricultural industry.

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