The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed five new cases of the New World screwworm, a parasitic fly that poses a serious threat to livestock. The cases include a calf in La Salle County, Texas, a goat in Gillespie County, Texas, and a pet dog in New Mexico. The screwworm fly lays eggs in open wounds, and if untreated, the larvae can cause severe damage or even death to the host animal within days.
The USDA’s National Veterinary Services Laboratories in Ames, Iowa, tested samples from the affected animals and confirmed the presence of screwworm. According to CNN, the USDA has activated personnel in Texas to contain and eradicate the parasite, establishing a 20-kilometer infested zone with quarantines, movement controls, and surveillance. The agency is also releasing sterile flies to limit the spread of the parasite.
The Swine Health Information Center notes that the screwworm was previously eradicated in the US, with the last outbreak occurring in Florida in 2016-2017. However, recent cases in South America have prompted increased monitoring and preventative measures in the US. The USDA has implemented aerial dispersion of sterile flies and active surveillance along the Texas border.
Brownfield Ag News reports that the USDA is urging residents to check animals for signs of infection, such as draining wounds, maggots, or discomfort. While the screwworm does not pose a food safety risk, it is a significant threat to livestock, pets, and wildlife.
USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins emphasized the importance of following treatment protocols and movement restrictions to prevent the establishment of the pest in the US. The USDA has set aside $750 million to build a facility in Texas to produce sterile flies, expected to open next year.
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