Gusano barrenador outbreak hits Chihuahua, triggers $2 bn loss alerts

gusano barrenador Chihuahua cattle disease sanitary zone $2 bn losses

Mexico confirmed the first case of the cattle‑borer worm (gusano barrenador del ganado) in the state of Chihuahua. Authorities activated a sanitary zone with a 20‑km focal area and a 40‑km peripheral ring, conducting inspections, traps, ivermectin treatments and reviewing neighboring ranches. The state and federal governments will cover all costs, and a certification system for treated cattle was ordered.

Officials warned that wind and storms could spread the fly over long distances, threatening the region that supplies about 35 % of Mexico’s live‑cattle exports. Private sector estimates place potential annual losses at over US$2 billion, while the disease has already spread to 28 states, with 1,951 active cases reported and more than 33,000 cumulative infections since November 2024. A new facility in Chiapas can release up to 180 million sterile flies weekly to curb reproduction.

The United States has kept its border ports closed to Mexican live cattle since November 2024 over sanitary concerns. Parallel sanitary interventions were also carried out in Hidalgo del Parral, following the same protocols.