New World Screwworm in TX

USDA has confirmed – for the first time in 60 years-- the detection of a New World screwworm (NWS) on American soil.  According to USDA, the pest was confirmed in a bovine calf in Zavala County, Texas.  This presents a serious threat to domestic livestock.  USDA has established a 20-mile zone around the infection site implementing quarantines, movement controls, and surveillance in this area.  The agency says it has also immediately increased the release of sterile flies “in addition to the 4 million sterile flies per week already being released aerially in the area.”  NWS maggots most often infest at open wound sites and can even be detected in humans.

"NWS is a serious pest that affects livestock, pets, wildlife, and less commonly, people and birds. NWS larvae (maggots) burrow into the flesh of living animals, causing serious damage to livestock and economic losses."

www.aphis.usda.gov/...