Canada has banned livestock from the US state of Texas. This action followed the discovery of flesh-eating screwworms in calves. The ban applies to cows and horses. They must have been in Texas within 21 days of crossing the border. Canada's food inspection agency made the announcement. This is a significant move for agricultural trade.
The parasite, known as the New World Screwworm, is dangerous. Female flies lay eggs in open wounds. These eggs hatch into hundreds of larvae. The larvae burrow into living flesh. They can kill their host if untreated. The US Department of Agriculture confirmed the parasite. It was found in a three-week-old calf in La Pryor. A second case appeared one month later. This was in Zavala County. Texas Governor Greg Abbott declared a state of disaster. He called it an "imminent threat" to the state's agriculture. This marks the first outbreak in the US in 60 years. The parasite has been spreading through Central America and Mexico.
This outbreak has broader economic implications. The US is a major beef and cattle producer. Texas alone is a leading cattle state. Canada and the US trade cattle regularly. In 2025, Canada imported 550,000 cattle from the US. These imports are for slaughter and breeding. The ban could disrupt supply chains. It also raises concerns about animal health surveillance. Canada's climate might prevent widespread screwworm spread there. However, farmers are warned to monitor their livestock. They should watch for wounds with discharge or bad smells. Even pets travelling to Texas should be checked.
The US Department of Agriculture plans to release sterile flies. This aims to control the screwworm population. They are also using sniffer dogs. Some experts question the effectiveness of these methods. Officials have combatted screwworms for decades. These efforts have had mixed success. The parasite was considered eradicated in the US in 1966. However, cases have reappeared since then.
This ban highlights the importance of agricultural health. It affects trade between neighbours. It also shows the need for strong surveillance systems. Canada monitors its borders for animal diseases. This ensures the safety of its own herds. Decision-makers will watch the screwworm situation closely. They will monitor US efforts to control the outbreak. The economic impact on the cattle industry is a key concern. Trade flows could be rerouted. The cost of disease prevention may rise.