The United States is responding to the reappearance of the New World screwworm fly, a livestock pest whose larvae can damage and kill animals, after cases are confirmed in multiple locations. The USDA reports detections involving animals in south Texas, including a calf in La Salle County. Additional detections are also reported in Texas, with state and federal officials ramping up containment efforts following confirmation of new cases. One report also describes a detection outside Texas, including a goat in another Texas county and a dog in New Mexico, based on USDA information.
Authorities describe the New World screwworm as a serious threat to the cattle industry. Multiple outlets note the potential impact on the US cattle herd, including concerns that an outbreak could affect cattle supply during a period when the herd is already relatively small. Outbreak management efforts are focused on containing and preventing further spread as agencies monitor additional animals and locations. The fly’s return marks a shift from the previous period of absence in the US that is often described as lasting more than half a century.
