First case of New World screwworm found in U.S. wildlife, USDA says
Summary
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) found the first case of New World screwworm in wild animals in the United States, specifically in an elk in Texas. This discovery led to more wildlife checks and changes to the affected area, with officials warning hunters to watch for signs of the parasite.Key Facts
- The New World screwworm was found in an elk on a game ranch in Pecos County, Texas.
- The USDA and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department increased surveillance following the discovery.
- The Texas Animal Health Commission will change the boundaries of the infested zone.
- Hunters are advised to look for signs like maggots in wounds, bad smells, weak animals, and growing or open wounds near body openings.
- The parasite lays eggs in open wounds on warm-blooded animals, and larvae feed on living tissue.
- The parasite was previously found in a young calf in Texas in June.
- New World screwworm usually lives in South America and the Caribbean but has moved north into Central America, Mexico, and now parts of the U.S.
- It rarely affects humans but one human case was found in the U.S. last year with no spread beyond that case.
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