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Jun. 8, 2026
by C.J. Miller, Hoosier Ag Today radio network West Lafayette, IN -- A second case of the flesh-eating New World screwworm has been confirmed in South Texas, intensifying concerns among agricultural officials and prompting Canada to suspend livestock imports from Texas as authorities mount an aggressive response to prevent the parasite from spreading deeper into the United States. The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced Friday that the latest case was discovered in a one-month-old calf in Zavala County, about 5.6 miles from the state's first confirmed case in six decades, which was identified earlier this week. The detections mark a significant setback in efforts to keep the pest from reestablishing itself in the United States after it was declared eradicated nationally in 1966. The New World screwworm is not a worm but the larval stage of a parasitic fly. Female flies deposit eggs in open wounds or body openings of warm-blooded animals. Once hatched, the larvae feed on living tissue, creating severe wounds that can become fatal if left untreated. Livestock, wildlife, pets and, in rare cases, humans can be affected. The discovery has triggered a broad response from federal and state officials, who have spent more than a year preparing for the possibility that the pest, which has spread northward through Central America and Mexico, would eventually cross into the United States. "USDA has responded expediently with respect to this second detection, demonstrating our utmost preparedness. This second detection is within the established movement control zone and enhanced sterile insect dispersal area," said Dudley Hoskins, USDA's under secretary for marketing and regulatory programs. "Many models projected this pest would reach the United States last year, but thanks to USDA's phenomenal work and our cooperation with state, federal, and industry partners, we've held it off until now--when we are far more prepared to respond. USDA has not wasted any time in this fight, we have defeated New World screwworm before, and we will do it again." The latest detection remains inside a 20-kilometer control zone established after the first case was discovered near the border. Federal officials said numerous additional suspect samples collected in the area have tested negative. Still, the development has raised concerns throughout North America's livestock industry. On Friday, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency announced temporary restrictions on livestock imports from Texas. Under the order, cattle, horses and other livestock that originated in Texas or were present in the state within 21 days before entering Canada will be denied entry. To read the entire report click here. Tweet |
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