Ranchers in southern Mexico are facing a dire situation as a flesh-eating parasite known as the New World screwworm poses a significant threat to livestock. This crisis is exacerbated by recent cases of the parasite that have led to livestock port closures, disrupting cross-border cattle trade between the U.S. and Mexico. Experts from Texas A&M AgriLife and state veterinarians are actively working on solutions, including the implementation of a new bait called Swormlure-5 that mimics the scent of open wounds to attract and combat the screwworm population. As the infestation spreads northward, U.S. officials are prepared to drop millions of flies from the sky in a concerted effort to manage the threat. The impact on cattle ranchers is substantial, raising concerns about market volatility and the overall health of herds across the region.