U.S. officials have suspended all imports of live cattle, horses, and bison amid concerns over the New World screwworm, a harmful parasite affecting livestock. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins emphasized the importance of protecting animal health and the food supply, asserting that this decision is motivated by safety, not politics. The screwworm has re-emerged in southern Mexico, posing a threat as it can quickly kill livestock. Efforts to combat this parasite date back decades, and a potential outbreak could have devastating economic consequences, potentially costing Texas $1.8 billion.
"The protection of our animals and safety of our nation's food supply is a national security issue of the utmost importance," Rollins emphasized.
"This is not about politics or punishment of Mexico, rather it is about food and animal safety," she clarified, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.
New World screwworms, fly larvae that can kill livestock within weeks, are causing significant concern as they spread closer to the U.S.
If an outbreak occurs, it could cost Texas $1.8 billion, underscoring the economic ramifications of the resurgence of the New World screwworm.
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