Flesh-Eating Screwworm Has Reached the US

The resurgence of the New World screwworm—a flesh-eating parasite that infests wounds of livestock, pets and occasionally humans—has reached Texas and New Mexico after spreading north through Central America and Mexico.

Researchers say illegal cattle trafficking may be accelerating transmission by bypassing animal health screenings, with movement patterns closely matching known smuggling routes. Experts also note that dogs are increasingly implicated in the parasite’s spread.

In response, U.S. and Mexican officials are expanding sterile-fly release programs, a strategy that previously eradicated screwworm from North America. The article highlights how cross-border animal health surveillance and coordinated disease-control efforts remain critical to preventing further spread. Read more from CNN here.