Texas is facing a potential crisis as the New World screwworm, a flesh-eating parasite, has been confirmed in two more cases in the state. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that a calf in La Salle County and a dog in Andrews County are the latest victims of this pest, which poses a significant threat to the cattle industry.
The screwworm, which is the larva of a fly, infests living flesh, laying eggs in open wounds of warm-blooded animals such as cattle, wildlife, and even pets. While the USDA has been working to contain the pest through a program that breeds sterile male flies, the recent cases highlight the challenges in controlling its spread.
Edward Burgess, an entomologist at the University of Florida, noted that the detection of new cases doesn’t necessarily indicate a rapid spread but rather increased vigilance. “When you are looking for something, you are more likely to see it,” he explained.
The USDA has been on high alert since the screwworm was detected in Mexico in late 2024. Historically, this parasite was a recurring problem for cattle ranchers in the U.S. until it was eradicated in the 1960s. Although its reappearance hasn’t significantly impacted beef prices yet, the potential for widespread infestation remains a concern.
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has criticized the federal response, advocating for the use of poison bait to address the issue more swiftly. However, experts warn that this method could harm other insects and animals, and the USDA has not endorsed it.
In response to the threat, Canada has temporarily halted the import of livestock from Texas. The USDA is ramping up efforts to produce more sterile flies and is planning to build a large-scale fly production facility in Texas.
USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins is set to address the situation in a news conference, emphasizing the importance of eradicating the screwworm to protect the cattle industry and prevent further economic impact.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
