By Zoila Palma: A suspected case of the flesh-eating New World screwworm parasite is under investigation in South Texas after samples from two calves were sent to a federal laboratory for testing, Reuters report.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) said the case is currently considered “presumptive positive,” meaning a preliminary test indicated the presence of the parasite, but official confirmation is still pending.
The suspected infestation was identified on a cattle ranch in La Pryor, Texas.
“Texas is home to the largest cattle population in the nation, with more than 12 million cattle and calves, supporting a $15 billion industry.
For almost two years now, I’ve warned Washington about how devastating a resurgence of the New World Screwworm will be for our ranchers, economy, and public health,” Congressman Vicente Gonzalez said.
If confirmed, the detection would represent a significant setback in ongoing efforts to prevent the parasite from entering the United States.
The screwworm has been steadily moving north through Mexico for more than a year, prompting the U.S. government to invest millions of dollars in prevention measures, including sterile fly production, increased trapping efforts, and enhanced livestock surveillance.
The U.S. border has also remained closed to cattle imports from Mexico for over a year to limit the pest’s spread.
The post International News: If confirmed, New World Screwworm infection could pose serious threat to U.S. cattle ranchers appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Zoila Palma: A suspected case of the flesh-eating New World screwworm parasite is under investigation in South Texas after samples from two calves were sent to a federal laboratory for testing, Reuters report. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) said the case is currently considered “presumptive positive,” meaning a preliminary test indicated the presence
The post International News: If confirmed, New World Screwworm infection could pose serious threat to U.S. cattle ranchers appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
