California Today

New World Screwworm Confirmed in Texas, Threatening U.S. Cattle Industry

08 June 2026 11:30

The USDA confirmed two more cases of New World screwworm in Texas, raising alarms for the cattle industry. The pest, a flesh-eating fly larva, was previously eradicated in the U.S.

in the 1960s. - Four total cases now confirmed in Texas, including a calf and a dog in separate counties.

- The USDA is ramping up sterile fly production, but Texas officials criticize the response as too slow. - Canada has temporarily halted livestock imports from Texas.

Officials are working to prevent a widespread infestation, with experts warning that more cases may appear as vigilance increases.

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Canyonagriculturepestcattleeconomy