New World Screwworm Map Shows US Cases as Parasite Found in Texas Elk
Summary
New World screwworm, a parasite that infects living animals by burrowing into their flesh, was found in a wild elk in Texas, the first confirmed U.S. wildlife case in the current outbreak. The parasite has affected animals in parts of Texas and New Mexico, prompting movement restrictions to control its spread.Key Facts
- New World screwworm is a parasitic fly that lays eggs on living animals, with larvae that eat living flesh.
- The parasite was confirmed in a female elk in Pecos County, Texas, on October 21.
- The outbreak in the U.S. started in June, with the first case in a calf in Zavala County, Texas.
- Confirmed cases have been found in domestic animals like cattle, goats, sheep, and a dog in Texas and New Mexico.
- Texas authorities have placed animal movement limits in parts of 12 counties to prevent spread.
- Humans can be infected but the risk is very low; no human cases in the current U.S. outbreak have been reported.
- The parasite is a concern for livestock, pets, and wildlife because it causes serious wounds and infections.
- The USDA tracks cases and updates a dashboard with details on locations and species affected.
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