(NAFB.com) – Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins announced the suspension of live cattle, horse, and bison imports through U.S. ports of entry along the southern border due to the northward expansion of the New World Screwworm virus. “While we are working with Mexico on responding to the screwworm, it’s my duty to take all steps within my control to protect the U.S. livestock industry from this devastating pest,” Rollins said. “The protection of our animals and the safety of our nation’s food supply is a national security issue of the utmost importance.” She also said that once the U.S. sees increased surveillance and eradication efforts and the positive results of those actions, the USDA will remain committed to opening the border to livestock trade. “It’s not about politics or punishing Mexico, but rather it’s about food and animal safety.” The first case of NWS in Mexico was reported to the U.S. in November 2024.
