Return of the New World screwworm roils US beef markets amid cross-border crime links
A revived New World screwworm has been found in the US (Texas and New Mexico) after decades of eradication, with researchers tracing its comeback to illegal Central American cattle trafficking; the outbreak threatens billions in beef losses, has involved a dog case in New Mexico, and has spurred discussions on control methods including sterile fly releases and the controversial SWASS tool, underscoring the need for cross-border action to halt the pest at its source.