Texas confirms second screwworm case, expands disaster declaration

Texas has confirmed at least eight cases of New World screwworm infestation as of June 11, with the first case since 1966 appearing in Zavala County on June 3. An additional case has been reported in New Mexico. The parasitic fly larvae feed on living tissue and can be fatal to animals if untreated, posing a significant threat to livestock and the state's economy, which includes a substantial cattle industry. Governor Greg Abbott has expanded the state's disaster declaration in response to the outbreak. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is resuming sterile-fly production to combat the spread of the screwworm. Cattlemen are employing drones and intensifying inspections to protect their herds from the infestation. The outbreak has also led to a U.S. border closure, which has benefited Mexican beef producers while causing hardship for Texas feedlots. Ranchers are facing the dual threat of this potential screwworm outbreak, described as "nightmares and horrors," and a severe lack of grazing grass, forcing many to sell their cattle early. This situation poses a challenge to President Trump's desire for lower beef prices, as the infestation impacts the beef industry and could affect consumer costs. Officials stress that the larvae do not infest meat or fruit. The first U.S. screwworm cases since the 1970s were confirmed in Texas, leading to concerns among ranchers about the USDA's response and preparedness.