New World Screwworm Threatens U.S. Cattle Industry: Key Facts and Response
Flesh-eating New World screwworm returns to US: Here’s what to know

Image: Inquirer
The New World screwworm fly poses a significant threat to the U.S. cattle industry, particularly in Texas, where an infestation was confirmed in a calf. With the potential for severe economic impact, officials are implementing quarantine measures and releasing sterile flies to combat the spread.
- 01The New World screwworm fly was confirmed in a calf in La Pryor, Texas, marking the first case in the state since 1966.
- 02The U.S. cattle industry, valued at $113 billion, is particularly vulnerable due to practices that can cause open wounds in livestock.
- 03More than 171,700 animals and 2,000 people have been affected by the parasite in Central America and Mexico, leading to 10 human deaths.
- 04A quarantine zone of 12 miles has been established in Zavala County, Texas, to prevent the spread of the infestation.
- 05The USDA is investing $750 million in a new fly factory in southern Texas to produce sterile flies, expected to start operations next fall.
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The New World screwworm fly, a parasite that poses a grave threat to livestock, has re-emerged in the U.S., with a confirmed case in a calf in La Pryor, Texas. This marks the first occurrence in the state since 1966, raising alarms for the $113 billion U.S. cattle industry, especially in Texas, which accounts for $17 billion of that total. The larvae of this fly feed on live flesh, making cattle particularly susceptible due to common handling practices that can cause skin injuries. Federal and state officials have implemented a 12-mile quarantine zone around the affected area to curb the infestation's spread, while ranchers are taking proactive measures, including administering preventive injections and monitoring livestock closely. The USDA has begun releasing sterile flies to control the population, with plans for a new fly-breeding facility in Mexico and a fly factory in Texas to enhance production efforts. As the situation develops, the agriculture sector remains hopeful that these measures will mitigate the economic impact on beef production amidst rising consumer prices.
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The infestation could significantly disrupt the cattle industry in Texas, affecting local ranchers and the economy.
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