The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed a fifth case of the New World screwworm, now detected in New Mexico. The parasite was found in a dog in Lea County, near Texas, where four cases were reported last week, primarily affecting livestock. The New World screwworm, known for laying eggs in open wounds, can lead to severe infections and death if untreated. Local officials in Texas have declared states of disaster in three counties and are requesting a national emergency declaration from President Trump to secure funding and resources. The outbreak follows infestations reported in southern Mexico, raising concerns about the parasite's spread. Texas Governor Greg Abbott emphasized the need for vigilance among ranchers and livestock producers, urging them to check animals for wounds and report any suspected cases. As temperatures rise, scientists caution that Gulf Coast states may face increased risks of infestation in the coming decades, highlighting the urgency of the situation.