Summary
Ranchers in Mexico are dealing with a flesh-eating parasite called the New World screwworm that infects livestock. Due to this, the United States has stopped importing cattle from Mexico to prevent the parasite from spreading across the border.
Key Facts
- Ranchers in Chiapas, Mexico, face an outbreak of the New World screwworm that affects animals like cows, sheep, pigs, cats, and dogs.
- The U.S. has stopped cattle imports from Mexico due to fears the parasite could spread to the U.S.
- Mexico, with U.S. support, is building a plant to produce sterile flies to help control the parasite, but it won't be ready until next year.
- The cost of medicines to treat affected animals has risen, leading some ranchers to use home remedies.
- The parasite can infect any open wound in animals, no matter how small.
- Veterinarian Alfredo Chávez reports an increase in cases in his area and notes limited government support.
- The U.S. fears that if the parasite reaches Texas, it could cause significant economic losses.
- Despite local efforts to control the outbreak, the presence of the screwworm has significantly affected cattle exports from Mexico to the U.S.
