Officials confirm flesh-eating New World screwworm parasite found in US wildlife
USDA says screwworm found in elk in Texas, and warns hunters and ranchers to be vigilant to help stop spread
TL;DR
- The USDA confirmed the first detection of the New World screwworm in US wildlife, an elk in Pecos County, Texas.
- The parasite was found on a game ranch after the elk was harvested by a hunter.
- The screwworm had been eradicated from the US decades ago but has surged north from Central America.
- Previous efforts to prevent its spread included a ban on Mexican cattle imports, which has since been partially resumed.
- Dozens of cases have been detected in the US this year, including on a calf, horse, and dog.
- Authorities are increasing surveillance and urging hunters and landowners to be vigilant for signs of the screwworm.