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.
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Dairy farmers are expected to face strong output and export gains, but lower prices and tighter margins will persist into next year.
With the latest detection just across the border, animal health officials on both sides are intensifying efforts to contain the outbreak before it spreads further north.
The USDA NASS report also confirms lower August placements.
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