Screwworm Map Shows 'Infested Zones' in Texas as 12th Case Reported
Summary
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has confirmed 12 cases of New World screwworm in Texas and one in New Mexico. These parasitic flies harm animals like cattle, sheep, goats, and pets, and the government is acting quickly to stop the spread and protect livestock.Key Facts
- There are 12 confirmed cases of New World screwworm in Texas, mainly in central and southwest parts of the state.
- One case was reported in New Mexico, affecting a dog in Lea County.
- The affected Texas counties include Edwards, Gillespie, La Salle, Sutton, Tom Green, and Zavala.
- New World screwworm flies lay eggs in open wounds or body openings of animals; the eggs hatch into maggots that eat living tissue.
- Humans can also be infected through skin breaks or openings like eyes, nose, mouth, and genitals.
- Texas Governor Greg Abbott has activated the State Emergency Operations Center to coordinate efforts to contain the pest.
- The FDA has approved emergency use of nitenpyram tablets, a treatment for infested animals like dogs and cats.
- Republican officials have criticized the previous administration’s border policies for allowing the pest’s spread from Central America to the U.S.
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