The New World screwworm, a devastating parasite, has entered the U.S. and is affecting livestock in Texas and other states. The parasite’s re-emergence has prompted concerns about the potential economic impact on the livestock industry.

History of Eradication Efforts

In the past, the U.S. has successfully eradicated the screwworm through a combination of methods, including the release of sterile flies. The Sterile Insect Technique, developed by scientists such as Edward F. Knipling and Raymond Bushland, involved releasing large numbers of sterile male flies to mate with female flies, reducing the population over time.

The technique was first tested on Sanibel Island in 1951 and later used in a larger-scale program in Florida and Texas. By 1966, the USDA declared the U.S. free of indigenous screwworms. However, the threat of re-infestation from Mexico and other countries has always been present.

Current Outbreak and Response

The current outbreak has prompted a renewed effort to eradicate the screwworm. The USDA estimates that the industry saved over $900 million a year as a result of eradication in the past. However, the financial impact of the current outbreak is still unknown.

Government officials are working to pinpoint how the screwworm entered the U.S. and to develop a plan to stop the spread of the parasite. The experience of Texas and other states in fighting the screwworm in the past will be crucial in informing the response to the current outbreak.

Original reporting: Texas Tribune (HLL/CB) — read the source article.