New World Screwworm Parasite Returns to United States After 60 Years
The New World screwworm, a parasitic fly larva that feeds on livestock, has been detected in Texas and New Mexico for the first time since 1964, with five infected animals identified so far. The fly had been eradicated from the U.S. through a decades-long sterile insect program but re-emerged from Central America in recent years. The resurgence threatens cattle herds already stressed by drought and low inventory, potentially driving up beef prices further.
The New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax), despite its name, is actually a parasitic fly whose larvae burrow into and consume the flesh of warm-blooded animals. After 60 years of successful eradication, the U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed its return in a three-week-old calf in rural Texas in late 2024, with four additional infected animals subsequently identified across Texas and New Mexico. The fly had been held at bay south of the Darién Gap in Central America through a sterile insect technique—where radiation-sterilized flies are air-dropped to mate with wild populations—but began moving northward in 2022, accelerating in 2024. The timing is particularly problematic as the U.S. cattle herd is at its smallest since 1951 due to drought, cattle prices are elevated, and the industry faces supply chain pressures. Eradication efforts will require hundreds of millions of sterile flies weekly, but current North American production capacity is limited to 100 million per week from a Panamanian facility, meaning elimination could take months to years.
What's missing
The articles do not adequately explain the specific mechanism by which the screwworm crossed the Darién Gap barrier or the extent of illegal cattle trafficking's role in the spread. Additionally, there is limited discussion of the economic impact projections on beef prices and consumer costs beyond general statements about price increases.
What different sources said
- The AtlanticLeft
The Parasite Threatening America’s Cows
Related
US Military Completes Strikes on Iranian Air Defense Sites Following Helicopter Attack
The US military conducted precision strikes against Iranian air defense and radar installations, characterizing the action as a proportional response to recent attacks on American forces and shipping. The strikes represent an escalation in tensions between the US and Iran over attacks on American military assets in the region. The operation signals a direct military response to Iranian actions, raising concerns about further regional escalation.
UN Report Alleges Israeli Forces Shield Settlers During West Bank Attacks
A UN report claims Israeli security forces routinely accompany settlers and protect them during violence against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. Israeli officials have rejected the report's findings, characterizing them as based on unsubstantiated allegations. The report adds to ongoing international scrutiny of Israeli military conduct and settler activities in Palestinian territories.
Woman dragged 100 metres on car bonnet after confronting husband with another woman in Uttar Pradesh
A 38-year-old woman in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh was dragged nearly 100 metres on a moving car's bonnet after attempting to stop her husband whom she accused of travelling with another woman. The incident occurred on Saturday evening but gained attention after a video surfaced on social media on Tuesday. Police have registered an FIR against the husband and the other woman under charges including attempt to murder and rash driving.