WATCH LIVE: Rollins holds update as USDA confirms more screwworm cases in Texas
Summary
The U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed two new cases of the New World screwworm in Texas, a pest that harms cattle by laying eggs in wounds. Officials are working to stop its spread using sterile flies and other methods, as the pest could hurt the cattle industry if not controlled.Key Facts
- Two more screwworm cases were found far apart in Texas, adding to two earlier cases.
- The screwworm is a fly larva that eats living flesh of animals like cattle, pets, and sometimes humans.
- The pest was eliminated in the U.S. in the 1960s but reappeared recently after detection in Mexico last year.
- Officials use a method where sterile male flies are released to mate with wild females, which helps stop the pest’s spread.
- The USDA is increasing sterile fly production and building a new facility in Texas to fight the outbreak.
- Some state officials want to use poison bait to kill screwworm, but experts worry about risks to other animals and people.
- Canada has temporarily stopped importing livestock from Texas because of the infestation.
- The screwworm prefers warm, humid climates, so its spread may be seasonal in northern areas.
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