The screwworm is a larva of the Cochliomyia hominivorax fly that can invade the tissues of any warm-blooded animal, including humans.

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."