LAREDO, Tex. (KGNS) – The U.S. Department of Agriculture has confirmed the first case of New World screwworm in decades in Texas; it was found in La Pryor in Zavala County.
The parasite that eats live flesh and threatens Texas’ multibillion-dollar cattle industry has been confirmed in south Texas.
Larvae were found in a three-week-old calf. The USDA says a 12-mile perimeter is in place around the affected ranch. Animals at risk are under quarantine. Expert teams are already releasing sterile flies, a method specialists call the most effective way to eradicate screwworm before it spreads.
So far, no additional cases have been reported. Authorities are urging ranchers and pet owners to check animals carefully, keep wounds clean and covered and seek help right away if they see unusual maggots or rapidly worsening sores.
Anyone who suspects an infection should contact a veterinarian or the Texas Animal Health Commission.
For more headlines, click here.
Copyright 2026 KGNS. All rights reserved.