The U.S. Department of Agriculture has confirmed the detection of the New World screwworm in a calf in Texas. This parasitic fly presents a significant threat to the nation’s cattle industry. The screwworm feeds on the flesh of warm-blooded animals.
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins identified the affected calf as being just three weeks old and located in La Pryor, Texas, approximately 50 miles from the Mexico border. In response, Texas State Veterinarian Bud Dinges has established a quarantine zone spanning 12 miles. This zone restricts the movement of any warm-blooded animals, including domestic pets, without prior inspection.
Despite this detection, Secretary Rollins emphasized that no additional screwworm cases have been found in the U.S. She also assured that while the fly’s larvae can severely impact livestock, they do not contaminate food products. With proper treatment, the affected calf is expected to recover fully.
The current number of cattle in the U.S. has reached its lowest point in decades. This decline has led to record-high beef prices. An outbreak of screwworms could exacerbate this situation, further driving up beef costs.
Updates on this developing story are anticipated as more information becomes available.