EU investigates possible screwworm case in South Texas; border with Mexico closed to livestock imports

U.S. agricultural authorities are investigating a potential screwworm infestation in South Texas, a development that could impact livestock trade and animal health. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced Wednesday that a sample from a cattle ranch in La Pryor, Texas, has been sent to its National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) in Ames, Iowa, for confirmation.

Texas Representative Don McLaughlin reported that the samples were taken from two calves on the same ranch. He indicated that he had seen photographic and video evidence of the affected animals. This potential case follows the confirmation of a screwworm case in Mexico's Coahuila state, located just 40 kilometers (about 25 miles) from the U.S. border, on Tuesday.

In response to ongoing screwworm cases in various Mexican states, the United States has maintained a closure of its border to livestock imports from Mexico. The USDA stated it would provide updates as soon as test results become available. The agency has already deployed personnel to the affected area.

The screwworm is a parasitic fly larva that feeds on living flesh. Its presence can cause significant economic damage to the livestock industry and poses a threat to animal health. Confirmation of the pest in Texas would necessitate stringent control measures to prevent its spread.

“

A case of NWS may have been detected in South Texas. The sample is now at USDA's National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) in Ames, lowa for confirmatory testing. We will provide updates the moment results are available. We have already activated personnel on the ground…