health
February 10, 2026
Texas prepares for looming screwworm outbreak
Texas is ramping up preparations to meet the looming invasion of New World screwworm, a parasitic fly threatening the state’s multibillion-dollar livestock industry.
TL;DR
- Texas is preparing for a potential invasion of the New World screwworm from Mexico, which threatens the state's livestock industry.
- Eradication efforts focus on releasing sterile flies to mate with wild screwworms, preventing reproduction.
- Current production of sterile flies is insufficient for the anticipated threat, with plans for expansion not expected until summer at the earliest.
- Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) is leading efforts, including educating producers and veterinarians on recognition and response.
- The Department of Agriculture has restricted Mexican livestock movement into the U.S. to help contain the fly's spread.
- Concerns exist about screwworms spreading through wildlife, particularly species with extensive home ranges like Nilgai.
- A new domestic sterile fly production plant is planned for South Texas, but won't be operational until 2027.
- Newly approved treatments like Exzolt Cattle-CA1 offer potential as both treatment and preventive measures.
Continue reading the original article