The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has reported a suspected case of the New World screwworm fly in south Texas, according to an announcement on June 3, 2026. The discovery raises concerns for livestock and human health, as the parasite can infest wounds and cause severe damage.
What Is the New World Screwworm Fly?
The New World screwworm fly (Cochliomyia hominivorax) is a parasitic insect that lays eggs in open wounds of warm-blooded animals, including humans. The larvae feed on living tissue, causing infection and potentially death if untreated. Eradication programs have historically used sterile insect techniques to control the pest.
USDA Response
Officials are investigating the suspected case and implementing surveillance measures to prevent an outbreak. The USDA is coordinating with local and state authorities to monitor livestock and wildlife in the area. The agency has not yet confirmed the case but urges vigilance among farmers and veterinarians.
This incident highlights the ongoing threat of invasive species to agriculture and public health. The New World screwworm was eradicated from the United States in the 1960s but occasionally reappears due to migration from endemic regions.
