The New World screwworm (NWS)-a destructive parasitic fly that targets warm-blooded animals-has been detected in Sabinas Hidalgo, Nuevo León, less than 70 miles from the U.S.-Mexico border. The city lies on a key corridor between Monterrey and Laredo, Texas, raising immediate concerns for U.S. livestock producers, co-ops, and biosecurity officials.

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins called the detection a "national security priority." She emphasized that while the U.S. continues working with Mexico, the country "will not rely on Mexico" to safeguard the cattle industry or "our way of life."

"We are firmly executing our five-pronged plan and will take decisive action to protect our borders," Rollins said, "even in the absence of cooperation."

This new case is over 300 miles closer to the U.S. border than the last reported detection in Veracruz, which occurred in July 2025 and led to an ongoing livestock import ban from affected areas. That case involved an 8-month-old cow moved from southern Mexico, reinforcing concerns over animal transport protocols.

According to a USDA report, the current case involves another 8-month-old calf from a 100-head herd, also transported from the south. Though Mexican authorities claim the outbreak is isolated, U.S. officials are treating it as a serious biosecurity threat.

Rollins said the U.S. will be "taking no chances." Updates are expected within the next 24 hours, as U.S. officials assess the scope and risk of this emerging threat.

For American producers, the news raises immediate worries about:

• Cattle price volatility

• Increased veterinary and input costs

• Stricter movement restrictions and inspections

The screwworm outbreak has policy implications too. While crop insurance isn't directly involved, farm bill safety nets and emergency relief funds may be activated if the outbreak spreads or disrupts agriculture markets.

The USDA and Department of Homeland Security have stepped up enforcement of the U.S.-Mexico Joint Action Plan and are likely to expand surveillance zones and ramp up border biosecurity.

Sustainable agriculture experts are also weighing in. They urge more investment in precision agriculture, early detection systems, and veterinary extension services to reduce exposure to threats like NWS.

The Texas livestock sector, especially along the border, is on high alert. Ranchers are being advised to:

• Inspect wounds daily

• Report abnormalities immediately

• Review herd movement records

Rollins concluded with a message to farmers and ranchers:

"We are prepared, we are resourced, and we will act decisively to defend American agriculture. Stay tuned."