New World Screwworm Detected in Texas Calf, USDA Implements Quarantine Measures
Flesh-eating screwworm confirmed in Texan calf, prompting USDA quarantine
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The USDA confirmed a case of New World screwworm in a calf in La Pryor, Texas, marking the first occurrence in the state since 1966. This parasitic fly poses a significant threat to the US cattle industry, with potential economic losses estimated at $1.8 billion if it spreads.
- 01The USDA has confirmed the first case of New World screwworm in Texas since 1966, specifically in La Pryor, located about 30 miles from the US-Mexico border.
- 02Economic losses for Texas's livestock industry could reach $1.8 billion if the screwworm spreads.
- 03The USDA has implemented a quarantine in a 20-km radius around the detection site and is releasing sterile flies to combat the infestation.
- 04Cattle futures prices fell by 1.7% following the confirmation of the screwworm case, reflecting market concerns over beef demand.
- 05Screwworms can infest any warm-blooded animal, including humans and pets, though the risk to people is low.
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The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) reported the detection of New World screwworm in a calf in La Pryor, Texas, the first case in the state since 1966. This parasitic fly, which lays eggs in open wounds of warm-blooded animals, poses a serious threat to the US cattle industry, already facing its lowest herd levels in 75 years. USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins indicated that this infestation could lead to economic losses of up to $1.8 billion for Texas's livestock sector. In response, the USDA has enacted a quarantine in a 20-km radius around the detection site, halted animal movement, and initiated the release of sterile screwworm flies to mitigate the infestation. The market reacted negatively, with feeder cattle futures dropping by 1.7%. The USDA has also been investing in sterile fly production and surveillance efforts to prevent further spread, as the screwworm has been advancing north from Mexico, where thousands of cases have been reported.
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The detection of the screwworm poses a significant threat to the Texas cattle industry, potentially leading to substantial economic losses.
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