By Allison Peck
Nebraska Cattlemen is urging livestock producers across the state to remain vigilant after the U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed a case of New World Screwworm in Texas, marking the first confirmed U.S. case in decades. The parasite was identified in a calf in South Texas, prompting federal and state animal health officials to launch containment and eradication efforts.
In a statement released Wednesday, Nebraska Cattlemen said the organization has been preparing for the possibility of New World Screwworm reaching the United States for nearly two years.
“Nebraska Cattlemen, the NC Animal Disease Threats Working Group, and the NC Animal Health and Nutrition Committee have been preparing for New World Screwworm almost two years. Although the only confirmed case in the U.S. at this time is in Texas, Nebraska producers should remain vigilant and report any cases immediately, as early detection and treatment will be highly effective in eradicating NWS. We have eradicated this parasite before and we will again.”
New World Screwworm is a parasitic fly whose larvae feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals, posing a serious threat to livestock, wildlife, pets, and, in rare cases, humans. Federal officials have emphasized that the Texas case appears isolated and that rapid response measures are already underway to prevent further spread.
Nebraska producers who suspect a case of New World Screwworm are encouraged to immediately contact their local veterinarian, the Nebraska Department of Agriculture at 402-471-2351, or the local USDA office at 402-434-2300.
Additional information about New World Screwworm and ongoing response efforts is available through the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.