A decades-old livestock threat has resurfaced in the United States, prompting concerns about major economic losses for ranchers and farmers. According to CNN, the New World screwworm, a flesh-eating parasitic fly once eradicated from the country, has been detected in Texas and other parts of the Southwest.
The parasite lays eggs in wounds or body openings of warm-blooded animals. After hatching, the larvae feed on living tissue and can kill untreated animals within days.
The report said cattle have been the primary victims, although sheep, goats and dogs have also been affected. No human cases have been reported in the current outbreak.
According to the USDA, 15 animal cases have been confirmed in the US so far. Experts warn the outbreak could cost billions of dollars if containment efforts fail.
Federal and state authorities have expanded surveillance, border inspections and sterile-fly release programs.
Officials believe the parasite spread north from Central America after a containment barrier in Panama weakened. Texas Governor Greg Abbott has urged ranchers to remain vigilant, stressing that the pest was defeated before and can be eradicated again.
Related Tweet:
Sentient reports that the New World screwworm, a destructive flesh-eating pest, has reemerged in the U.S. after being eradicated for decades, threatening livestock. https://t.co/kvOCVRym2s pic.twitter.com/uRL7woFbQF
— azfamily 3TV CBS 5 (@azfamily) June 21, 2026
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