News
Texas cow/calf producer says New World screwworm containment efforts show progress
Photo courtesy of the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.
A southeast Texas cow/calf operator says the sterile fly dispersals have been integral in the containment of New World screwworm. Stephen Diebel says the proactive approach has made a difference. “I think it’s a manageable situation as we get to the fall and the winter months,” he says.
He tells Brownfield it’s important for producers to continue to keep eyes on their cattle and look for signs of infestations. “But also, understanding the vet client patient relationship,” he says. “And understanding that your veterinarian certainly needs to be involved with your treatment and prevention protocols.”
On Friday, the USDA announced it would begin reopening the southern ports to live cattle imports from Mexico. Diebel says the timing makes sense. “We are getting into the cooler months,” he says. “They are going about it in a way that seems like it’s very methodical.”
There have been 42 confirmed cases of New World screwworm in the United States, 41 in Texas and 1 in New Mexico. Eleven cases remain active.
In a post on X Friday, Mexico’s president, Claudia Sheinbaum says Mexico will accelerate its work and collaboration with the U.S. to ensure steps are implemented to resume the movement of cattle, which are slated to begin August 24th.