WHAT HAPPENED: USDA has confirmed 45 New World screwworm (NWS) detections in the U.S. as of August 10 — 44 in Texas and one in New Mexico — up from 37 two weeks prior. Despite the rising count, USDA is proceeding with its phased reopening of southern livestock ports from Mexico: the Douglas, Arizona port, bordering the lower-risk Mexican state of Sonora, is set to reopen August 24, contingent on full USDA inspection of every animal crossing. APHIS will evaluate that reopening before considering similar moves for New Mexico ports.
WHY IT MATTERS: NWS is a cattle and wildlife pest, not a poultry-specific issue, but the outbreak’s continued spread and its effect on U.S.-Mexico livestock trade remain a broader agricultural biosecurity concern. USDA maintains there is no food safety risk and human/animal risk in the U.S. remains low.
WHAT’S NEXT: Watch for confirmation the Douglas port reopens as planned August 24, and whether USDA extends reopening to additional New Mexico ports.
