Are you prepared for New World screwworm (NWS)? Originally eradicated from the U.S. in 1966, NWS (Cochliomyia hominivorax) larvae (myiasis) presents a challenge many cattle producers have never experienced firsthand.

Heat stress in cattle develops progressively, often beginning with subtle changes before more severe symptoms appear. By the time obvious signs such as open-mouth panting or lethargy are visible, performance losses may already be occurring.

Despite advances in vaccines, nutrition and management, bovine respiratory disease (BRD) remains one of the most persistent and costly challenges in beef production. While the weather this fall has been off to an unseasonably mild start, producers shouldn’t mistake low rates of BRD in early months for a disease-free season.

Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is essentially pneumonia. Caused by specific bacteria and viruses, it is the most expensive disease in the beef industry.

Heat stress remains a costly, persistent challenge in U.S. beef production. Annual losses exceed $370 million annually, and the economic impact often begins before producers see obvious clinical signs. What feels like mild heat and humidity to humans may still impact cattle comfort and performance.

The earlier BRD is detected and treated, the better the opportunity to minimize lung damage. If it’s not caught quickly, cattle will be less likely to respond to antibiotic treatment and will be at a greater risk for relapse or mortality.

Successful beef producers work cattle with tried-and-true strategies during hot, muggy summers. Innovative methods, such as working early in the morning or at night, can prevent excessive heat loads in cattle.

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins launched the construction of an $8.5 million sterile fly dispersal facility on June 18 at the Moore Air Base in Edinburg, Texas, and announced a comprehensive five-pronged plan to bolster the USDA’s efforts to control New World screwworm (NWS).

Open your weather app. Is it 80ºF, or do you see 80ºF in the forecast? Are nighttime temperatures staying above 70ºF? If so, your cattle are at risk for heat stress. Even if you didn’t answer “yes” to either, chances are high that your cattle will be exposed to heat stress conditions at some point this summer.