USDA officials have confirmed a second case of New World screwworm infection in Texas cattle, marking a troubling development for the state’s livestock industry. The discovery comes just days after the first case was detected in a young calf in Zavala County, southwest of San Antonio. These are the first known U.S. cases of the parasite since the 1960s, when an extensive eradication campaign successfully eliminated it from the country.

The infections have prompted an immediate response from state and federal agencies, which are working to prevent the parasite from establishing itself and spreading to other regions. The New World screwworm is a parasitic fly whose larvae feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals. Female flies lay eggs in open wounds, and once the eggs hatch, the larvae burrow into the flesh, causing painful, potentially fatal infestations if left untreated.

While the parasite is often associated with cattle and livestock, it can also affect other wildlife, including pets and even humans. Authorities are treating its return as a serious threat.

Texas is the nation's largest cattle-producing state, and even a limited outbreak can create substantial costs for ranchers. Should the parasite continue to spread, even if it remains confined to Texas, the impact would send shockwaves through the agricultural sector…

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Texas Governor Greg Abbott has issued a statewide disaster declaration, while state and federal agencies have established an infested zone and imposed livestock movement restrictions in affected areas.

Officials have also begun releasing millions of sterile male screwworm flies, a proven eradication method that prevents wild populations from reproducing. Meanwhile, Canada has temporarily restricted certain livestock imports from Texas to reduce the risk of spread.

The outbreak was caught early and will likely remain contained, though there may be a short-term effect on food prices and agricultural markets, especially if the parasite spreads further. Texas is crucial to U.S. beef production, and any disruption to cattle operations can add pressure to an industry already dealing with reduced herd sizes and drought.

Screwworm larvae invade open wounds and feed on living tissue, so susceptible animals must be monitored more closely. As a result, agricultural businesses may face higher costs due to increased inspections, stricter movement controls, and additional disease-prevention measures.

The discovery of the first U.S. cases in decades also serves as a reminder that diseases once thought to be eliminated can return under the right conditions. The coming months will test whether the containment strategies that successfully eradicated screwworms in the past remain effective against a modern resurgence.

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