U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins is currently touring Texas to shed light on the ongoing efforts against the New World screwworm. He recently visited a ranch in Zavala County, where the first case of this flesh-eating parasite was identified, noting that the affected calf made a complete recovery after nine days of treatment.
On Thursday, Secretary Rollins, along with New World Screwmaggot Control Senior Advisor John Bellinger, spent time at Rock Creek Ranch. Rancher Robbie shared the positive update about the calf initially discovered in LaPrior, Texas. Rollins even shared a video from that visit, showcasing the calf happily moving around with its mother in the ranch’s pens.
According to reports, the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has confirmed the presence of New World screwworm larvae in calves located within 80 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border. The first discovery occurred on June 3 in a three-week-old calf’s navel in Zavala County.
The resurgence of the New World screwworm has been a growing concern for Texas officials. Since its detection in Zavala County, six additional cases have been reported, primarily in Texas. If the infestation spreads further, it could be a significant threat to livestock producers both in Texas and across the nation.
One infection was also found in a dog belonging to a resident of New Mexico. Authorities believe the dog contracted it during a recent trip to Mexico. The USDA is actively tracking cases to monitor the spread of this outbreak.
As reported, state officials are gearing up for the challenge posed by the pest as it makes its way north from Mexico into Texas.
In August 2025, the situation led Texas Governor Greg Abbott to declare a statewide disaster and to utilize emergency powers as a preventive measure against the parasite crossing the border. This pest was eradicated back in 1966 thanks to the Sterile Male Fly (SIT) program.
Authorities are currently increasing the production and release of sterile flies in hopes of controlling the latest outbreak. The SIT method employed by Texas A&M University’s AgriLife Extension is recognized as effective; however, it’s not a quick solution.
Regular monitoring of herds is essential to stop the spread of these screw maggots. Much of the geographical spread of the parasite is attributed to the movement of humans transporting infected animals, along with the lesser contribution of fly movement, emphasizing the importance of herd monitoring.
During his Texas visit, Rollins connected with local cattle producers and toured various ranches to underscore the importance of safeguarding the state’s livestock industry from New World screwworm outbreaks. The potential economic ramifications could significantly impact not only the livestock sector but also the hunting and wildlife industries, with some predictions estimating losses could reach as high as $2.1 billion, according to a report from Texas A&M University.
Additionally, the Texas hunting industry is said to generate approximately $4.6 billion in economic output and contributes over $400 million in tax revenue annually. Monitoring New World screwworm prevalence in wildlife, including white-tailed deer, will definitely present challenges for authorities.
