Texas Declares State of Disaster Amid Surge in Dangerous Parasite Infections

Texas has declared a state of disaster across all 254 counties due to a growing outbreak of the screw worm fly larva, a parasite that attacks warm-blooded animals. The U.S. Department of Agriculture reported a rise in confirmed cases from two in early June to 12, with 11 cases in Texas and one in New Mexico.

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In response to this threat, Texas has declared a state of disaster.

The screw worm fly, native to South America, has been moving northward since 2023. Its larvae feed on live flesh, causing painful wounds. The parasite affects livestock like cattle, sheep, and goats, as well as wild animals and, in rare instances, humans. To combat the spread, Texas officials are conducting surveillance, testing, and releasing millions of sterilized male flies to disrupt the parasite's reproductive cycle.

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The parasite attacks warm-blooded animals (cattle, sheep, goats, wild game, pets), and in rare cases, humans.

This outbreak poses a significant economic threat, particularly to Texas, the nation's largest cattle-producing state. A "The Hill" report warned that an uncontrolled infestation could lead to annual losses of $1.8 billion. While officials assure that meat from affected animals is safe to consume if properly prepared, they urge animal owners to regularly inspect their livestock and report any suspected cases to veterinarians immediately.

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Annual losses could reach $1.8 billion.