09.06.2026 13:41
The flesh-eating parasite "New World Screwworm" (NWS), which reappeared in the US after 60 years, has been detected in New Mexico following Texas. Authorities are on alert due to the parasite found in calves, goats, and a dog, while experts warn that new cases may emerge. To prevent the spread of the parasite, millions of sterilized flies are planned to be released in the area.
Alarm has been raised in the US due to the reappearance of the flesh-eating parasite "New World Screwworm" (NWS) after nearly 60 years. The parasite, first detected in the state of Texas, has also been reported in New Mexico.
The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that an NWS case has been confirmed in New Mexico, following Texas.
DETECTED IN CALVES, GOATS, AND DOGS
Officials reported that the parasite, found in three calves and a goat in Texas, has also been detected in a dog in Lea County, New Mexico. New Mexico State Veterinarian Samantha Holeck stated that an investigation has been launched in the area where the infected dog was found, and efforts will be expanded if additional cases are identified.
EXPERTS WARN OF NEW CASES
Entomologist Edward Burgess from the University of Florida warned that new cases may emerge in the coming days. On June 4, a flesh-eating parasite was found in the umbilical area of a calf in La Pryor, Texas, marking the first NWS case in an animal since 1966.
MILLIONS OF STERILE FLIES TO BE RELEASED
Authorities plan to release millions of sterilized screwworm flies into the region to prevent the spread of the parasite. This method aims to ensure that female flies, which mate only once, lay unfertilized eggs, thereby preventing the formation of new larvae.