Mexico has temporarily suspended the entry of live cattle and several other animal species from the United States after confirmed cases of New World screwworm were reported in Texas and New Mexico.
The decision was announced by Mexico’s Agriculture Ministry in coordination with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Authorities described the measure as preventive and aimed at reducing the risk of the pest spreading into Mexican regions that remain free of the disease.
According to official information, USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service notified Mexico’s Senasica of a confirmed case in a bovine in Zavala County, Texas. Additional detections were later reported in Texas and New Mexico, prompting tighter cross-border animal health controls.
As part of the measure, Mexico paused the issuance of animal health import requirements for several categories, including cattle for breeding and slaughter, wild ruminants, horses, pigs, sheep and goats. The restriction also covers some birds and ferrets intended for trade or companionship.
Mexican authorities said the goal is to protect the sanitary status of northwestern states such as Baja California, Baja California Sur, Chihuahua and Sinaloa, where the pest has not been detected.
The suspension does not end technical cooperation between both countries. Mexican and U.S. agencies will continue sharing scientific and sanitary information to monitor the situation and determine when trade can safely resume.
For companion dogs and certain birds, authorities are focusing on stronger inspections at entry points and reviewing additional requirements to verify their health status before crossing.
New World screwworm is a parasitic pest that affects warm-blooded animals. Its larvae can infest open wounds and cause serious tissue damage if not treated. Animal owners and transporters are being urged to remain alert, report suspicious cases and comply with movement and inspection rules.
Source: El Financiero
