The U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed five cases of New World screwworm in the United States on June 8, 2026 [2].
This parasitic infestation poses a significant threat to the agricultural economy and animal welfare. Because the larvae feed on living tissue, the outbreak could cause widespread livestock losses and severe health crises for domestic pets if not contained within the Southwest.
The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) identified the cases in two states. Confirmed infections were found in La Salle County, Texas, and Andrews County, New Mexico [3]. The most recent reports include a case involving a dog in Texas, which contributed to the rising count [1].
While most reports indicate the total number of confirmed cases has reached five [1], some reports from the border region suggest a discrepancy regarding the classification of a dog in New Mexico. Some sources imply the count may have remained at four due to a re-classification of that specific case [4].
USDA officials are tracking the outbreak to prevent further spread across the region. The agency is focused on protecting both livestock and pets from the infestation [5]. The New World screwworm is known for its ability to migrate and infest open wounds, making early detection critical for containment.
APHIS continues to monitor the affected counties and is coordinating response efforts to eliminate the parasite from the U.S. landmass. The agency is working to ensure that the infestation does not establish a permanent foothold in the Southwest [5].
“The USDA confirmed a total of five cases of New World screwworm in the United States.”
The emergence of New World screwworm in two different states indicates a geographic expansion that complicates containment efforts. Because the parasite targets living tissue rather than dead flesh, it can rapidly incapacitate livestock and pets, potentially leading to significant economic losses for ranchers and increased veterinary emergencies in the Southwest.
