Screwworms have reemerged in the US with five confirmed cases, including four in Texas calves and one in a dog. While the primary concern is the economic impact on the cattle industry, with potential annual losses of $732 million for Texas producers, humans are also at risk of severe infections that can penetrate bone and tissue. The USDA is monitoring the situation as the flies spread from Mexico, though human cases remain rare but dangerous when they occur.
Background
Screwworms are parasitic flies whose larvae can infest living tissue in animals and humans. The US had previously eradicated screwworms through a sterile insect technique program, but they have recently reemerged, likely spreading from Mexico.
- Source
- Ars Technica
- Published
- Jun 10, 2026 at 01:09 AM
- Score
- 6.0 / 10