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News in English (USA) / 19.06.2025 / 01:00

US Launches Initiative to Combat Flesh-Eating Screwworm Threat

The United States is intensifying efforts to combat the New World screwworm, a flesh-eating parasite endangering livestock. Secretary Rollins announced a plan to open a sterile fly facility in South Texas, aiming to control the northward spread of this pest, which poses a significant threat to cattle farming. The USDA is investing $8.5 million in this facility while also coordinating with Mexico to monitor the situation and facilitate cattle exports. Ranchers express concern over the potential impact of this invasive species on their industry, recalling past devastations caused by screwworm outbreaks. Cattle groups and agricultural officials are urging rapid action to prevent another crisis as experts warn about the increasing risks posed by the parasite.
AP News, USDA (.gov), Bloomberg.com, The Conversation, The Texas Tribune, Feed Strategy, Agri-Pulse, Brownfield Ag News, "National Cattlemens Beef Association", AG INFORMATION NETWORK OF THE WEST