The Parasite That’s Getting Dangerously Close to the US
The New World screwworm, a parasite that lays eggs in living flesh, has been detected approximately 90 miles from the Texas border. The parasite poses a significant threat to livestock and humans, and its spread is attributed to funding and monitoring challenges, as well as warmer temperatures.
A fly capable of laying hundreds of eggs inside living flesh, known as the New World screwworm, is heading towards the US. The parasite has traveled significantly in under a year, with the closest confirmed case now approximately 90 miles from the Texas border. The Texas Department of Agriculture confirmed detections roughly 90 miles from the border, the closest the parasite has come to the US since its eradication in 1966. The New World screwworm targets living animals, with female flies laying eggs in open wounds and natural orifices. The larvae then burrow inward, feeding on living flesh, and secreting substances that attract more females to lay eggs. The parasite's spread is attributed to funding and monitoring challenges, as well as warmer temperatures extending its habitat range. The USDA and Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller have called the parasite an imminent threat.
This content was automatically generated and/or translated by AI. It may contain inaccuracies. Please refer to the original sources for verification.