New World screwworm returns to U.S., infecting livestock in Texas and New Mexico
By
Fechi Inyama
Summary
The New World screwworm, a flesh-eating parasite native to South America, has returned to the U.S. with at least 15 confirmed cases in Texas and New Mexico affecting cows, goats, sheep, and a dog as of June 21. The screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) poses a threat to animal and human health as well as the beef industry. Female blowflies deposit eggs into open wounds of mammals, and the larvae burrow into and feed on living flesh, causing pain to the host. Experts warn it could take more than a year to eradicate the parasite again.
Source
Twitter / XNew World screwworm returns to U.S., infecting livestock in Texas and New Mexicosciencenews.orgKey quotes
· 3 pulledFlesh-eating, hooked-mouth maggots have wriggled their way back into the United States.
The screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) threatens the health of animals and humans as well as the beef industry.
The larvae burrow into and feed on the living flesh as they grow.
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