Southern Border Closure: US Takes Action Against Invasive Livestock Flies

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Post on May 12, 2025

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Southern Border Closure: US Takes Emergency Action Against Invasive Livestock Flies

The United States has taken unprecedented action to protect its livestock industry, announcing an emergency closure of several border crossing points along the southern border to combat the spread of invasive New World screwworm flies. This aggressive measure, announced late last week by the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), highlights the serious threat posed by these parasitic insects to American agriculture.

The New World screwworm ( Cochliomyia hominivorax) is a highly destructive pest that infests livestock, causing significant economic losses and potentially leading to the death of infected animals. These flies lay their eggs in open wounds on animals, and the hatched larvae burrow into the flesh, feeding on living tissue. This can lead to severe infections, significant weight loss, and ultimately, death if left untreated. The potential impact on the US cattle, sheep, and goat industries is immense.

Why the Emergency Border Closure?

The recent detection of New World screwworm flies in Mexico, near the US border, prompted immediate action. APHIS officials explained that the risk of these flies crossing the border and establishing a breeding population in the US is substantial. A successful infestation could have devastating consequences for the American livestock industry, potentially costing billions of dollars in losses and impacting food security.

The temporary closure affects several smaller, less-trafficked border crossings in Texas and Arizona, specifically targeting areas deemed high-risk for screwworm fly migration. APHIS is working closely with Mexican authorities to coordinate eradication efforts and prevent further spread. This collaborative approach is crucial in combating this transboundary pest.

What Actions are Being Taken?

Beyond the border closures, APHIS is implementing a multi-pronged strategy to control the screwworm fly infestation, including:

• Increased Surveillance: Intensified monitoring and trapping programs are underway in border regions to detect any potential incursions.
• Treatment Programs: Livestock in high-risk areas are being inspected and treated proactively to prevent infestations.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: APHIS is educating ranchers and livestock owners about the threat and the importance of reporting any suspected cases.
• Research and Development: Ongoing research is focused on developing more effective control methods, including sterile insect techniques.

Economic Impact and Long-Term Concerns

The economic impact of a widespread screwworm infestation could be catastrophic. The cost of treating infected animals, potential losses in livestock production, and disruptions to the meat supply chain could have far-reaching consequences. The closure of border crossings, though disruptive to some border communities, is considered a necessary precaution to mitigate these significant risks. Long-term concerns include the potential for the screwworm fly to become established in the US, requiring ongoing and costly management efforts.

Looking Ahead:

The temporary closure of border crossings is a stark reminder of the importance of protecting US agriculture from invasive pests and diseases. APHIS's swift and decisive action demonstrates the agency's commitment to safeguarding the nation's livestock industry. The situation is being closely monitored, and the agency will continue to assess the effectiveness of its control measures and adjust its strategy as needed. The duration of the border closures will depend on the success of the eradication efforts in Mexico and the absence of further detections in the US. This situation underscores the interconnectedness of global agriculture and the need for proactive, international collaboration in combating invasive species.