New World screwworm reappearance in U.S. poses fatal risk to pets, experts warn
By
Liz Szabo, MA
If you only eat one bagel today, this is the bagel.
Summary
The New World screwworm (NWS), a parasitic fly eliminated from the U.S. for 60 years, has reappeared in Texas and now poses a threat to pets, not just livestock and wild animals. A recent case in a New Mexico dog highlights this danger. Infestations can be fatal for dogs and cats depending on severity, location, diagnosis timing, and veterinary care received, according to Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.
Key quotes
· 3 pulledA screwworm infestation can be fatal for dogs and cats, depending on the severity of the infestation, which part of the body is affected, the timing of the diagnosis, and the healthcare the animal receives.
The New World screwworm (NWS), a parasitic fly that had been eliminated from the United States for 60 years before reappearing in Texas earlier this month, has traditionally been considered a threat to livestock and wild animals.
A report of screwworm in a New Mexico dog last week highlights the insect's danger to pets.
You might also wanna read
Screwworm Parasite Returns to Texas After 60 Years of Eradication
Screwworms, a flesh-eating parasitic pest, have re-emerged in the United States after being declared eradicated over half a century ago. The
Defector·5d ago
U.S. Closes Southern Border Ports to Livestock Trade Amid New World Screwworm Spread in Mexico
The U.S. Secretary Rollins has shut down southern border ports to livestock trade following the northward spread of New World Screwworm (NWS
usda.gov·10mo ago
Guinea Worm Disease Nears Eradication with Only 10 Cases Reported Worldwide in 2025
The article reports that Guinea worm disease is nearing global eradication with only 10 human cases reported worldwide in 2025, according to
arstechnica.com·4mo ago
CDC Tracks 14 Potential Rabies Outbreaks Across 20 US States Following Six Deaths
The CDC is tracking 14 potential rabies outbreaks across 20 US states, with six rabies-related deaths reported since September 2024. While h
Researchers Discover Potential 'Off Switch' for Toxoplasma Gondii Brain Parasite
Researchers have discovered a potential 'off switch' for Toxoplasma gondii, a common parasite that infects the brains of approximately 40 mi
sciencealert.com·5mo ago