New World Screwworm: Awareness and Resources to Protect Your Livestock

The New World screwworm, a flesh-eating parasite known for infesting warm-blooded animals, is once again raising concern among U.S. agriculture and livestock communities. This dangerous pest preys on a wide range of hosts including cattle, horses, sheep, goats, birds, wildlife, and even household pets.

Though once widespread in the southern United States, the screwworm was successfully eradicated in the 1960s through intensive efforts led by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). However, recent outbreaks in Mexico have reignited fears of the pest's potential return.