A new update from federal officials shows New World screwworm cases are continuing to climb in the U.S., with two more confirmed in Texas. The latest cases were found in a goat in Edwards County and cattle in Zavala County, bringing Texas to eight confirmed cases and the nationwide total to nine. All confirmed U.S. cases so far involve domestic animals, including cattle, goats, and a dog in New Mexico. USDA APHIS says it is working with the Texas Animal Health Commission on surveillance, reporting, and control efforts, while more than 130 million sterile male flies have been released in Texas since January to help break the pest’s reproductive cycle.
Why This Matters:
New World screwworm cases are increasing, and each new case adds pressure to containment efforts. This parasite can be devastating to livestock, and if it continues spreading, ranchers could face more quarantines, treatment costs, and disruptions to cattle movement. With beef prices already high, another threat to herds could create more strain on availability and cost. For households, this is another reminder that food supply issues often build before they reach the grocery store. Long-term food storage, including freeze-dried beef dices and beef crumbles, gives families a practical backup when pests, disease, or supply chain disruptions create uncertainty around everyday food.
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Source: CBS Austin
By: Tara Brolley
