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News in English (USA) / 30.06.2026 / 22:00

Screwworm Outbreak Threatens U.S. Livestock Industry Amid Expanded Quarantines

The re-emergence of the New World screwworm poses a significant threat to the U.S. livestock industry, particularly in Texas, where cases have exceeded two dozen. With a recent surge in infections, Texas agricultural officials have issued emergency quarantines across 21 counties to combat the spread of this flesh-eating parasite. Ranchers are on high alert as stringent transport bans for livestock and pets are enforced, and concerns grow over the potential $1.8 billion annual cost to the Texas livestock sector. Efforts are underway, including funding for research and breeding sterile flies to tackle the outbreak. Meanwhile, neighboring states and regions are preparing their defenses, with public health measures and awareness campaigns aimed at preventing the introduction of screwworms. The situation remains fluid, with authorities urging coordination among federal and state agencies to effectively manage this pressing agricultural crisis.
The Texas Tribune, Bloomberg.com, Meatingplace, FOX 9 Minneapolis-St. Paul, Yahoo, kiiitv.com, sentientmedia.org, University of Arizona News, Valley News Live, ABC27