The New World screwworm, a parasitic fly that preys on warm-blooded animals, has been identified in a calf in Texas. This discovery highlights a serious threat to the nation’s cattle industry, as reported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced that the case involved a three-week-old calf located in La Pryor, Texas, approximately 50 miles from the Mexico border. To address the situation, Texas State Veterinarian Bud Dinges has set up a 12-mile quarantine zone. This measure prevents the movement of any warm-blooded animal—including pets—outside the zone without prior inspection.
Rollins clarified that no additional instances of the screwworm have been identified in the U.S. as of now. Officials emphasize that while the larvae of the screwworm pose a threat to livestock, they do not contaminate food. With appropriate treatment, the affected calf is expected to recover.
The U.S. cattle population is currently at its lowest in decades, contributing to record-high beef prices. A screwworm outbreak could further decrease cattle numbers, potentially causing prices to escalate even more.
This situation is evolving, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
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