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Resurgence of Screwworm in Texas Linked to Cattle Trafficking Crisis

KVIA•Thursday, June 11, 2026 at 10:30 AM•CNN Newsource

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AI Summary

The New World screwworm has re-emerged in Texas, with a case reported in a calf last week, raising alarms among ecologists and agricultural officials. This resurgence is attributed to illegal cattle smuggling from Central America, which has allowed the parasite to spread northward. The USDA and Mexican authorities are implementing measures to combat the screwworm, including breeding sterilized flies, but experts warn that without addressing the root causes of cattle trafficking, the problem will persist. The potential economic impact could reach billions, echoing the devastating losses experienced during the last outbreak in the 1970s. Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller is advocating for additional pest control measures, while the USDA has resisted these calls, citing environmental concerns.

Key Details: • USDA detected New World screwworm in Texas calf last week. • Cattle trafficking from Central America is a major contributing factor. • USDA and Mexican authorities are breeding sterilized flies to combat the screwworm. • Potential economic damages could reach billions for the beef industry. • Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller is pushing for additional pest control measures.

agriculture disease screwworm usda cattle-trafficking

People & Organizations

TexasNew MexicoChiapasClaudia SheinbaumInsight CrimeSid MillerBrooke RollinsUS Department of AgricultureCentral AmericaJeremy RadachowskyFidel GutíerrezWildlife Conservation Society

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