U.S. and Mexico Allocate $30M for Sterile Fly Campaign to Curb Screwworm Spread Amid Rising Beef Prices

The U.S. and Mexico are intensifying efforts to combat the resurgence of the New World Screwworm, a parasitic fly whose larvae infest open wounds of livestock and other animals, by mass-producing and releasing sterile male flies to curb its spread. The initiative, supported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), involves constructing a production facility in Chiapas, Mexico, to generate sterile insects for airdrops across the U.S.-Mexico border. The strategy, which has historical success in eradicating the parasite in the 1950s, aims to prevent a potential infestation in Texas, where the economic risks from livestock losses could be catastrophic [1][3].

Mexican ranchers in Chiapas, however, face immediate challenges. Despite the planned facility, which is not yet operational, the cost of veterinary treatments has surged, forcing some to resort to unorthodox methods like applying gasoline or lime to wounds. Veterinarians report rising cases across species, including cattle, sheep, and dogs, with limited government support for containment. The parasite’s presence has also triggered a nationwide U.S. ban on Mexican cattle imports, exacerbating economic strain for local ranchers [1][3].

The U.S. has allocated nearly $30 million for the program, including the construction of a production base in Texas for airdropping sterile flies. Mexico’s involvement is critical, as the parasite has advanced northward from Central America, with recent infestations detected 370 miles from the Texas border. The sterile insect technique (SIT) relies on overwhelming wild populations with sterile males to prevent reproduction, but its success depends on synchronized, large-scale releases. Analysts note that delays in facility readiness and resource gaps in Mexico create uncertainties, particularly as the parasite spreads closer to the U.S. [1][3][5].

Economic pressures are mounting for the livestock sector. Rising beef prices, with ground beef hitting $6.10 per pound in July 2025, highlight vulnerabilities in supply chains already strained by the outbreak. The USDA’s focus on a “federal response” underscores the urgency, as unchecked infestations could disrupt production and further elevate costs. While SIT avoids chemical pesticides, its long-term viability hinges on sustained funding and cross-border coordination. Critics question whether the current budget suffices for a multiyear campaign, especially if the parasite adapts to the sterile fly strategy [5][7].

The collaboration reflects a broader shift toward biotechnology in pest control, aligning with global trends in agricultural biosecurity. However, the immediate reliance on temporary measures—such as costly medications and manual interventions—illustrates the gap between planning and execution. Veterinarians and ranchers in Chiapas, though optimistic about eventual success, emphasize the need for more tangible support to mitigate ongoing losses. As the parasite inches closer to Texas, the race to scale up sterile fly production remains a critical test of regional cooperation [1][3].

Sources:

[1] [Mexico is building a plant with U.S. support in Chiapas to produce sterile flies](https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2025/07/24/mexico-us-screwworm/)

[3] [A new infestation was found just 370 miles from the Texas border](https://www.instagram.com/p/DMdMzaisfx6/)

[5] [The U.S. plans to spend nearly $30 million on sterile fly breeding](https://m.facebook.com/AFLN2020/photos/-us-re-closes-southern-border-over-flesh-eating-parasite-threat-the-usda-has-aga/1063811382507449/)

[7] [Ground Beef Just Hit $6.10 a Pound — Here’s Why Prices](https://www.aol.com/lifestyle/ground-beef-just-hit-6-123100986.html)