The USDA will not reinstate restrictions on cattle imports from Mexico despite the recent detection of New World screwworm in a cow south of the border, Reuters reported.
The World Organization for Animal Health confirmed a case in Mexico’s Tabasco state in mid-February. Previously, the USDA imposed a live cattle import ban in November but lifted it Feb. 1 under new protocols to assess animal health before entry into the U.S.
In response to concerns about further restrictions, the USDA said its “comprehensive pre-clearance inspection and treatment protocol” ensures the safe movement of cattle and bison while mitigating the screwworm threat.
