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New World Screwworm Crisis Halts U.S. Cattle Imports

5/28/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The New World screwworm, a menacing parasite, is making a comeback in the U.S. after a protective barrier was compromised in 2022. Spreading swiftly through Central America to Mexico, it has led to a halt in live cattle imports. The cattle industry is caught off guard, highlighting an urgent need for new sterile fly production to tackle this looming crisis.

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Story summary

The New World screwworm, a menacing parasite, is making a comeback in the U.S. after a protective barrier was compromised in 2022. Spreading swiftly through Central America to Mexico, it has led to a halt in live cattle imports. The cattle industry is caught off guard, highlighting an urgent need for new sterile fly production to tackle this looming crisis.