Second Case of Flesh-Eating Parasite Detected in Texas
SECOND case of flesh-eating parasite that devours victims alive detected in US
Image: Mail Online
A second case of the New World Screwworm parasite has been confirmed in Zavala County, Texas, following the first detection in a calf. This flesh-eating parasite poses a low risk to humans but can cause severe infections in animals and has prompted a swift response from authorities.
- 01The second case of New World Screwworm was found in a one-month-old calf in Zavala County, Texas, about 5.6 miles from the first case.
- 02The USDA has implemented a quarantine zone and is conducting sterile fly releases, deploying millions of sterile flies weekly to combat the spread.
- 03Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued a disaster declaration to address the threat to the state's beef industry, which could face significant economic losses.
- 04The New World Screwworm can lay 200 to 300 eggs at a time, leading to rapid infestations that can cause deep, painful wounds.
- 05Despite the alarming nature of the parasite, officials believe there is no immediate threat of a mass infestation in the U.S.
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The United States has confirmed a second case of the New World Screwworm (NWS) parasite in Zavala County, Texas, following the initial detection in a calf. The USDA reported this second case, which is located approximately 5.6 miles from the first outbreak. The NWS, which lays eggs in the wounds of animals, poses a low risk to humans but can lead to severe infections in livestock. In response, the USDA has established a 12-mile quarantine zone and is conducting extensive surveillance and treatment efforts. Governor Greg Abbott has declared a disaster to better manage the threat to Texas's beef industry, which could face significant economic impacts, recalling the $200 million losses incurred during previous infestations. The NWS has been advancing through Mexico, prompting authorities to release millions of sterile flies to prevent establishment in the U.S. While the parasite can infest humans and pets, the risk remains low, and officials are confident in their measures to control the situation.
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The detection of the New World Screwworm in Texas poses a significant threat to the local beef industry, prompting emergency measures.
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