Discovery of Flesh-Eating Parasite Near US-Mexico Border

A flesh-eating parasite has been found about 40 kilometers from the Mexico border, as reported by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

On May 28, the USDA revealed that the New World screwworm was detected in a 5-year-old goat in Coahuila, Mexico, which lies adjacent to southwestern Texas. According to USDA data, there have been nearly 27,000 cases of this parasite reported in animals across Mexico, with nearly 2,000 active cases. Importantly, APHIS indicated that the parasite is currently absent from the U.S.

The presence of this parasite has been alarming, especially since monitoring began by federal and state authorities in Mexico in November 2024. The New World screwworm was last noted to be as close as 90 miles from the U.S. border back in April 2026, according to Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller. It’s clear that the situation is evolving.

Texas Republican Representative Don McLaughlin claimed recently that the parasite is now just a mile away, a statement Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins challenged during a recent press conference. Rollins expressed concern about the impact of misinformation, especially when it originates from trusted sources.

In discussions with journalists, Rollins also highlighted the severe risk that this parasite poses to livestock. Reports indicate that the New World screwworm primarily targets livestock, pets, and wildlife, but human cases are rare. The infection occurs when screwworms lay eggs in wounds, and their larvae feed on the tissue of warm-blooded animals.

This parasite, it’s worth noting, doesn’t lead to respiratory illness and is not considered contagious between animals or from animals to humans. The USDA is actively monitoring the situation, having set up traps across Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, and California.

Though primarily an animal issue, one human case was noted involving an individual who traveled from Maryland to El Salvador. Fortunately, that person has recovered.

According to a 2025 report, APHIS funds a significant portion of a commission focused on eradicating and preventing screwmaggot infection across countries, which saves the livestock industry billions annually. If established in the U.S., this parasite could severely impact agricultural practices.

The commission operates on an annual budget of $15 million. Notably, the program has employed genetic modification techniques to control the screwworm population effectively. However, the parasite’s movement northward raises concerns, especially with increasing illegal immigration trends in the region.