Warble Fly Outbreak Prompts Texas Disaster Declaration and Local Action

Governor Greg Abbott declared a state of disaster in Texas after officials confirmed the presence of the New World screwworm fly in a three‑week‑old calf in Zavala County – the first case recorded in the state in more than 60 years. State and federal agencies activated surveillance zones, imposed animal‑movement restrictions, deployed traps and began large‑scale releases of sterile flies to halt the parasite, which threatens cattle and can cause fatal wounds in livestock and humans.

In a nearby Mexican municipality, residents have protested the lack of municipal response to the reappearance of the same pest, calling on the mayor to launch mass sterilization and veterinary campaigns. Community members warn that uncontrolled stray dogs could spread the larvae to livestock and people, urging local authorities to implement preventive measures and treatment services.