Screwworm Threat Returns to US: Why It Matters
Summary
In 2025, screwworm parasites, which were once eradicated in the United States, have returned and are threatening cattle herds. The parasites cause severe harm to animals, and controlling them is challenging. The outbreak spread from Central America to the U.S. due to issues like disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic and increased movement of animals and people.Key Facts
- The screwworm is a parasite from the larvae of a blowfly that targets warm-blooded animals.
- It was eliminated in the U.S. by the 1960s using the sterile insect technique, which stops them from reproducing.
- Outbreaks began spreading north from Central America to Mexico and now into the United States.
- Factors like COVID-19 disruptions and increased cattle and human movement have contributed to the spread.
- The screwworm causes significant financial losses due to damage to cattle and the need for control measures.
- In 2023, the U.S. confirmed its first human screwworm case in decades; the person had traveled from El Salvador.
- Efforts are needed to produce sterile flies and maintain surveillance to prevent further spread.
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