Tennessee State Veterinarian stops by to review steps to combat New World Screwworm

The ag sector is working to keep America’s livestock protected from New World Screwworm. While there is a suspension on live animal imports from Mexico, producers still need to stay aware and vigilant of the pest.

Tennessee State Veterinarian Dr. Samantha Beaty joins RFD-TV’s Suzanne Alexander to discuss where we currently stand on the situation, what type of threat is poses to livestock, and some key signs producers should be looking for.

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What is it like working cattle with an outbreak of New World Screwworm so close to home? Wayne Cockrell, with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, joined us on Wednesday to discuss.
“We believe that it is just a matter of days or weeks... before we see New World screwworm in Texas.”
Fewer cattle on feed suggest smaller slaughter numbers this winter, which could support strong prices if beef demand holds firm.
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.
Producers and processors should watch trade policy closely as tariff impacts ripple through seafood markets.
“Continue to help us push the New World screwworm back to the Darién Gap and hopefully towards eradication.”
“I don’t think we’re going to see cattle coming across the border at all because of that increase in their cases in Mexico.”

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