New World screwworm confirmed in Texas, stoking fresh cattle fears
Summary
The New World screwworm, a harmful cattle pest, has been found in Texas for the first time in 60 years. The U.S. Department of Agriculture is responding by quarantining and treating infected animals to protect the cattle industry, which is already facing challenges like drought and high beef prices.Key Facts
- New World screwworm larvae, which harm cattle, were discovered in Zavala County, Texas.
- This pest had been eradicated in the U.S. for about 60 years before this case.
- The USDA launched an emergency response including quarantine and treatment, not culling animals.
- The pest had been spreading northward from Mexico before reaching Texas.
- Beef prices are at record highs, partly due to drought, high feed costs, and steady demand.
- The pest rarely affects humans but can cause serious sores if it does.
- The USDA is sending treatment supplies and releasing sterile flies to control the pest.
- The cattle industry is concerned about possible losses and reduced consumer demand due to the infestation.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.