Parasite crisis impacts cattle exports near Texas

TEXAS – A parasite in Mexico has been devastating cattle herds, significantly affecting U.S. companies. Ranchers in Mexico report that the parasite, which had not been seen for 30 years, reappeared in November of last year.

In response, the U.S. closed its border to cattle exports in May. Most cases of the parasite remain in the south, but this week, it was discovered just 70 miles from the U.S.-Mexico border. Mexico attributes the spread to illegal cattle crossings into its southern border.

Senator John Cornyn of Texas highlighted the potential economic impact of the parasitic outbreak.

“An outbreak of the New World Screwworm in the State of Texas is estimated to cost U.S. livestock producers approximately $1 billion and cost the general economy $3.7 billion,” Cornyn said.

The U.S. an