US Confirms New Cases of Flesh-Eating Screwworm in Texas and New Mexico

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has reported three new cases of New World screwworm, marking a significant development as these include the first known instances in dogs and goats. This update raises the national tally to five cases. The screwworm is a parasitic fly that was deemed eradicated in the U.S. in the 1960s.

Federal and state officials in Texas held a news briefing on Monday, where they outlined their strategy to combat the screwworm. This includes the use of AI-driven technology to track the fly populations effectively. They are also training ranchers to identify and address infections in livestock promptly. Additionally, authorities are increasing the number of facilities responsible for producing and distributing sterile flies, which are crucial in controlling screwworm populations.

There is also a consideration for emergency authorization of a genetically engineered fly strain. This could potentially enhance the efficiency of sterile fly production, speeding up efforts to manage this pest.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott expressed confidence in overcoming the screwworm challenge. “We eliminated this pest in the past,” he stated. “We can eliminate it again.”

The newly identified cases include a calf in La Salle County, Texas, a goat in Gillespie County, Texas, and a dog in Lea County, New Mexico. Official data does not clarify if the dog was infected within the U.S. Although it was initially suggested that the dog might have traveled from Mexico, officials later acknowledged uncertainty about its recent whereabouts.

Earlier, the USDA reported two cases in calves located in Zavala County, Texas. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins acknowledged that the reappearance of the New World screwworm in the U.S. was not entirely unexpected.