screwworm Outbreak Threatens to Spike Meat Prices – Here’s How It Hits Your Wallet
A fast-spreading screwworm infestation is tearing through livestock herds, and experts warn it could push your grocery bill up by 15% or more in the coming months. The parasite, which burrows into the flesh of cattle, pigs, and even pets, has already led to quarantines in key farming regions. That means fewer animals for slaughter, tighter supplies at the butcher counter, and higher prices on beef, pork, and poultry. Animal health officials are scrambling with costly treatments, but costs are being passed down to you. Worse, the screwworm can also infect humans if wounds go untreated—raising health risks for those handling raw meat or living near farms. For your daily life, check meat labels for price hikes, avoid buying into panic-induced bulk purchases, and keep an eye on local news. If you’re a farmer or pet owner, inspect animals daily—that screwworm isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a silent drain on your wallet and well-being.