New World Screwworm Detected in Texas, Prompting Urgent Response
Dangerous livestock pest case confirmed in Texas

Image: Phys.org
The New World screwworm (NWS) fly has been confirmed in a calf in south Texas, prompting immediate containment efforts by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The larvae are flesh-eating and can be deadly to livestock, but officials assure that the food supply remains safe.
- 01The New World screwworm was eradicated in the U.S. in 1966 but has re-emerged, with a previous outbreak in Florida in 2016.
- 02A 12-mile quarantine zone has been established in Texas, requiring inspections of all warm-blooded animals before leaving the area.
- 03Approximately four million sterile NWS flies are being released weekly to combat the infestation.
- 04A USDA study estimated that a resurgence of screwworms in Texas could cost the state's economy up to $1.8 billion.
- 05Officials emphasize that the larvae do not infest food sources like meat or vegetables.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) confirmed the presence of the New World screwworm (NWS) fly in a three-week-old calf in south Texas, raising concerns about livestock health and the beef supply. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced that immediate actions are being taken to contain and eradicate the pest, which was previously eliminated in the U.S. in 1966. The affected calf was found with larvae in its umbilical area but is currently receiving treatment and improving. To prevent the spread of this dangerous pest, Texas has established a 12-mile quarantine zone where all warm-blooded animals must be inspected. The USDA is actively releasing around four million sterile flies weekly to combat the infestation. Despite fears, officials state that the NWS does not pose a threat to the food supply, as the larvae do not infest food sources. The detection highlights the need for ongoing vigilance and collaboration among livestock and public health communities.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The detection of the New World screwworm could affect livestock health and the beef supply in Texas.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
How concerned are you about the New World screwworm outbreak in Texas?
Connecting to poll...
More about U.S. Department of Agriculture

First New World Screwworm Case in U.S. Cattle in 60 Years Detected in Texas
Scientificamerican • Jun 4, 2026

Flesh-eating Screwworm Detected in Texas Calf, Raising Concerns for Cattle Industry
The Week • Jun 4, 2026

Texas Faces Threat from Resurgent Flesh-Eating Parasite Amid Funding Cuts
Raw Story • Jun 2, 2026
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.


