On June 3rd (US time), the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) confirmed a case of infection with the New World screwworm, commonly known as the flesh-eating parasite, which was detected in Texas. This is the first time this parasitic fly species has been recorded on livestock in the US after decades.
According to the USDA, the National Veterinary Service Laboratory in Ames, Iowa tested a sample taken from a 3-week-old calf in La Pryor, Texas and confirmed the presence of New World screwworm.
Immediately after detecting the infection, functional agencies deployed forces at the scene to prevent and eliminate parasites. The measures applied include establishing a 20 km wide infectious area, conducting quarantine, controlling animal movements and strengthening surveillance in the area. The USDA also accelerated the release of infertile flies to overwhelm the natural fly population and limit the risk of spread.
Ms. Brooke Rollins, US Secretary of Agriculture, said that if the parties comply with animal treatment guidelines and travel restriction measures, there is no reason to believe that this pest will restore its long-term population in the US.
New World screwworm was announced to be removed from the US decades ago thanks to programs to raise infertile flies, awareness campaigns and efforts to control pests abroad. However, the number of cases appearing in South America has recently increased, causing public health experts and the USDA to closely monitor the situation.
This parasite is not an infectious disease transmitted from animals to animals. Adult female flies lay eggs in open wounds of hot-blooded animals. After hatching, larvae only eat the host's living tissue, which can cause damage to important organs or lead to serious infections. In severe cases, the host can die.
The USDA said that the appearance of New World screwworm is not a food safety issue, but may affect food production activities. The widespread outbreak risks causing economic damage of up to billions of USD and increasing beef prices in the context that the price of this item in the US is at a record high.
Parasites are also assessed as a threat to wildlife and pets. Veterinarians in Texas, Arizona and New Mexico have been asked to monitor for new signs of infection. Ms. Brooke Rollins also advises pet owners to pay attention to discomfort, open wounds or the appearance of eggs and larvae around natural holes in animal bodies.
