MIAMI, May 16, 2024 – Doctors and veterinarians are bracing for a potential public health and agricultural crisis as the New World screwworm, a parasitic fly larvae that hadn’t been seen in the U.S. for decades, is making a concerning comeback. The parasite, which feed on living tissue, is prompting alerts from officials in Florida and Texas.
Recent outbreaks and Geographic Spread
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The first confirmed case in the U.S. in over 30 years was detected in a horse in Florida in May 2023.Since then, additional cases have been identified in livestock across the state. More recently, in early May 2024, the USDA confirmed cases in Texas, specifically in several counties along the border with Mexico. The USDA has since implemented a response program in affected areas of both states.
“This is a serious situation that requires a swift and coordinated response,” said a USDA spokesperson in a statement. “We are working closely with state officials and producers to contain the spread of this parasite and protect our livestock industry.”
Symptoms and Risks
The New World screwworm causes a myiasis, an infestation of tissues by fly larvae. In livestock, symptoms include open wounds that don’t heal properly, often becoming heavily infested with larvae. These wounds can lead to secondary infections, weight loss, and even death. While human infections are rare, they can occur if the fly lays eggs in a wound or mucous membrane. Human cases can cause painful, slow-healing wounds and, in some instances, systemic illness.
protecting Livestock and Yourself
veterinarians are advising livestock owners to practice strict wound care, including cleaning and bandaging any injuries to prevent flies from laying eggs. Regular monitoring of animals for signs of infestation is also crucial. For humans,the best prevention is to keep wounds clean and covered,especially in areas where the screwworm is present.
The USDA is employing a sterile insect release technique, similar to the one used in the original eradication program, to control the population. Millions of sterile male flies are released into affected areas to mate with wild females,preventing them from producing viable offspring.
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