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Officials confirm flesh-eating New World screwworm parasite found in US wildlife
The Guardian • • general
Key Points:
- The USDA confirmed the first detection of the flesh-eating New World screwworm parasite in US wildlife this year, found in an elk in Pecos County, Texas.
- The infected elk was discovered on a game ranch after being harvested by a hunter, prompting increased surveillance and modification of an infested zone by Texas animal health authorities.
- The New World screwworm, eradicated from the US decades ago, has been spreading north from Central America through Mexico, leading to a year-long US ban on Mexican cattle imports to prevent its entry.
- Although livestock imports from Mexico resumed in August at an Arizona port under a phased reopening plan, the parasite has still been detected multiple times in Texas this year, including in a calf, horse, and dog.
- The import halt contributed to tightened US cattle supplies and record-high beef prices, while authorities urge hunters and landowners to remain vigilant for signs of the parasite.
