New World Screwworm Cases In Mexico Rise By More Than 50%

Cases of the flesh-eating New World screwworm in Mexico are climbing fast.

Reuters reports that more than 5,000 caes have been confirmed as of mid-August. A 53% jump since July.
Government data shows that nearly 650 active cases in livestock right now.

One industry leader told Drovers the surge is troubling, especially with extreme heat making it harder to control the parasite.

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association says that the risein cases proves the screwworm remains a serious threat. Experts believe more producers are spotting and reporting infections.

Related Stories
Dairy farmer and Discover Ag co-host Tara Vander Dussen joined us to discuss the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, her experience at the signing, and what’s next for her family and farm.
The Farm Bureau is making an urgent call to Congress for more farm support. Colton Lacina with Farmers National Company joined us to discuss farmland values and how market dynamics for the year ahead reflect stabilization rather than collapse.
Analysts say a Supreme Court decision on tariffs could reshape protein markets, strain U.S.-China trade, and force farmers to rethink global demand strategies.
President Donald Trump speaks at the World Economic Forum in Davos, addressing SNAP spending, tariff threats against Europe, market reactions, and the upcoming USMCA review.
Despite rising costs and growing food insecurity, meat demand remained strong in 2025 as higher-income consumers offset cutbacks elsewhere. Economists break down the K-shaped economy, upcoming USDA cattle reports, livestock production outlooks, and renewed debate over beef imports and country-of-origin labeling heading into 2026.
Corn growers are turning to ethanol, E15 expansion, and export markets to help absorb record supplies and stabilize prices. Farm leaders discuss low-carbon ethanol demand, flex-fuel vehicle challenges, input costs, and the role of USMCA as producers look for market relief in the year ahead.