Canada Blocks Texas Livestock Imports Over Screwworm Outbreak

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency announced temporary restrictions on livestock, including horses, that originated in or were present in Texas within 21 days before reaching the Canada‑U.S. border. The measure follows the confirmation of a second case of New World screwworm in a Texas calf and additional cases in the state and New Mexico, prompting a precautionary effort to keep the parasitic fly from entering Canada.

Officials said the screwworm larvae can cause severe tissue damage in warm‑blooded animals but are unlikely to survive Canada’s cold winters. The Canadian Cattle Association noted that most of Canada’s imported cattle come from northern U.S. states, so the restrictions are not expected to disrupt domestic cattle production significantly, though it urges continued vigilance and biosecurity.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott declared a state of disaster, highlighting the broader concerns for the U.S. cattle sector.