Second New World Screwworm Case Found in Texas Raises Concerns for Livestock

The Department of Agriculture officials have confirmed a second case of New World screwworm in Texas, just days after the first US cattle detection from a natural incursion since 1982.

The Details: The second case was identified in a 1-month-old calf in Zavala County, about 5.6 miles from the first infected calf found near La Pryor, Texas, roughly 50 miles from the Mexican border. Officials said samples collected from nearby areas have so far tested negative. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has said there is no threat of mass infestation or to the food supply. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said the parasite does not spread through meat, poultry or dairy products. 

The Threat: The New World screwworm is a parasitic blowfly whose larvae feed on living tissue. According to the CDC, female flies lay eggs in wounds or body openings, where the larvae hatch and burrow into flesh. Infestations can cause serious injuries and are often fatal for livestock. The pest was eradicated from the United States decades ago through a sterile-fly program, but officials warn that a larger outbreak could have significant economic consequences for ranchers and cattle producers.

How The Media Covered It: Media coverage was largely similar across the political spectrum, focusing on the cases and the potential threat to livestock. However, Forbes (Center bias) framed the story around possible economic impacts, including higher beef prices, and highlighted claims that DOGE-related funding cuts reduced monitoring efforts in Central America. Breitbart (Right) used dramatic language in its headline, describing the situation as a "disaster." Its coverage focused more on the government response, emphasizing Gov. Greg Abbott's disaster declaration, Canada's livestock restrictions and criticism from Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller of the USDA's containment strategy.

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