The threat from the flesh-eating maggots, known as the New World Screwworm, has suspended live cattle imports through the southern border.

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins called the safety of the nation’s food supply "a national security issue of the utmost importance."

U.S. cattle futures soared to record highs on Monday after Washington suspended cattle imports from Mexico over a flesh-eating parasite, which Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum denounced as unfair.