Texas – Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller issued a warning after the New World screwworm was detected in northern Mexico, raising concerns about the potential threat to livestock and public health in Texas.
According to the Texas Department of Agriculture, the parasitic pest was confirmed in the Mexican state of Coahuila, approximately 119 miles from the Texas border. Officials noted the detection places the threat at a similar latitude to South Texas communities, increasing concern about possible spread.
Miller described the situation as a “serious wake-up call,” emphasizing the urgency of the threat as it moves closer to the United States.
The New World screwworm is a parasitic fly known for causing severe infestations in warm-blooded animals. Its larvae invade living tissue, leading to a condition known as myiasis. Experts say adult flies lay eggs in open wounds or natural body openings, and once the larvae hatch, they burrow deeper into flesh, often causing significant injury or death if left untreated.
State officials warned the pest poses a risk not only to cattle and livestock, including horses, sheep, and goats, but also to wildlife, pets, and in rare cases, humans.
Miller said Texas is taking proactive steps to prevent the pest from crossing into the state. Under his direction, the Texas Department of Agriculture has implemented expanded surveillance efforts in high-risk areas.
These measures include increased trapping operations using specialized attractants, as well as monitoring at border zones, export facilities, and ports of entry. Officials said surveillance is being conducted on a weekly basis, with rapid response teams prepared to act if the pest is detected closer to or within Texas.
The department is also coordinating closely with federal agencies and Mexican authorities to track the spread and implement control strategies.
Miller pointed to past efforts to combat the screwworm, noting that the pest had previously been eradicated in the United States through the use of sterile insect techniques, which involve releasing sterilized flies to reduce reproduction rates.
“We’ve beaten the screwworm before through relentless vigilance and the sterile insect technique,” Miller said, expressing confidence that similar strategies can be effective again if necessary.
However, he stressed that continued vigilance will be critical as the situation develops.
“This threat is advancing fast, and every Texan needs to take notice,” Miller said.
Officials are urging ranchers, veterinarians, and residents to remain alert for signs of infection in animals, particularly unusual wounds or infestations. Early detection is considered key to preventing wider spread.
The Texas Department of Agriculture advised that anyone who suspects a case should contact a veterinarian immediately or report concerns through the department’s hotline.
More information about detection, prevention, and reporting is available through federal and state agriculture resources.
State leaders said protecting livestock, the food supply, and agricultural livelihoods remains a top priority as monitoring efforts continue.
