US Agriculture Secretary Rollins addresses New World screwworm outbreak

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins testified before the Senate that six cases of the New World screwworm have been confirmed in the United States, five in southern Texas and one in New Mexico. She said the outbreak is under control and emphasized the USDA's response, which includes a 20‑kilometre movement restriction zone, accelerated releases of sterile flies, expanded trapping and a $1.3 billion investment since January 2025.

A senior official from the former Trump administration has accused the Biden administration of allowing the pest to spread by weakening immigration and border controls, claiming the Trump administration’s earlier actions bought the U.S. an extra year to prepare. Rollins countered that the response is nonpartisan and focused on protecting the nation's $113 billion cattle industry.

The USDA continues to monitor and contain the parasite, which was thought eradicated in the 1960s, as it threatens livestock health and market stability.