The U.S. Department of Agriculture has confirmed a second case of the New World screwworm, a flesh-eating parasite, in Texas. This detection has led to Canada temporarily restricting livestock imports from affected U.S. areas, citing concerns over the spread of the parasite which affects warm-blooded animals.
Officials stress that the U.S. food supply remains safe and that containment efforts, including the release of sterile insects, are actively underway.
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed a second instance of the New World screwworm, a dangerous flesh-eating parasite, within Texas. The discovery was made in a young calf in Zavala County, a location in close proximity to the first confirmed case earlier this month.
The parasite's larvae feed on living tissue of warm-blooded animals, leading to severe, potentially fatal wounds if left untreated. While the USDA assures the U.S. food supply remains secure, with affected animals identified and prevented from entering commerce, the detection has prompted swift action from international partners.
In response, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has implemented temporary restrictions on livestock imports originating from the affected U.S. regions. Animals that have been in Texas within the last 21 days will not be allowed entry into Canada.
Officials emphasize that both cases were found within an established control zone where efforts are underway to suppress the screwworm population using sterile insect releases. "USDA has not wasted any time in this fight, we have defeated New World screwworm before, and we will do it again," stated Dudley Hoskins, the agency's Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs.
Livestock owners are urged to remain vigilant and prioritize surveillance and reporting to aid in the swift eradication of the pest.
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