New World screwworm parasite detected in Texas elk

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed the first case of the New World screwworm parasite in U.S. wildlife, following the discovery of the infection in an elk in Pecos County, Texas. The elk was found on a game ranch after being harvested by a hunter.

The New World screwworm is a parasitic fly that lays eggs in the open wounds or body openings of warm-blooded animals. Once hatched, the larvae feed on living tissue. While the USDA stated that the parasite does not affect food safety, it poses a significant threat to meat production and livestock.

This detection follows a June finding of the parasite in a Texas calf. Other cases involving a horse and a dog have also been reported in the U.S. this year. The parasite, typically found in South America and the Caribbean, has been spreading north through Central America and Mexico. This resurgence previously led to a ban on Mexican cattle imports, which contributed to tightened U.S. cattle supplies and record-high beef prices.

In response, the USDA and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department are conducting additional wildlife surveillance in the area. The Texas Animal Health Commission is also modifying an established infested zone. Officials are urging hunters and landowners to watch for signs of infection, such as visible maggots in wounds, foul-smelling injuries, or animals appearing weak and distressed.