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The first confirmed case of New World screwworm in the Rio Grande Valley has been identified in Starr County, Texas, prompting state and local officials to establish an infested zone and intensify response efforts to contain the flesh-eating parasite.
County officials confirmed July 19 that New World screwworm larvae were found in a calf in the western portion of Starr County, marking the county’s first confirmed case and the first known detection in the Rio Grande Valley. Local officials said the case was confirmed the same day it was reported.
According to Starr County Judge Eloy Vera, the suspected case was reported north of Roma on Saturday before state officials confirmed the diagnosis later that day. Vera said he planned to meet with the Texas Animal Health Commission and other officials Monday to discuss next steps.
In response, an infested zone has been established in Starr County as animal health officials work to limit the spread of the parasite.
“Starr County is working closely with the Texas Animal Health Commission and other local and state partners to contain the spread and protect livestock, wildlife, pets, and other animals,” the county said in a social media statement.
The county urged residents to remain alert while avoiding panic.
“Starr County Judge Eloy Vera and the Emergency Management Team ask residents not to panic, but to remain vigilant. If you observe any animal with unusual wounds or suspect a case of New World Screwworm, please report it immediately to the appropriate authorities.”
Officials said response measures are already underway in coordination with state agencies.
“Protecting our community’s animals requires a united effort. By working together and reporting suspected cases promptly, we can help limit the spread and safeguard Starr County,” county officials said in a separate statement. “Please be assured that Starr County officials are actively collaborating with local and state agencies to implement response measures and help ensure the safety and well-being of our community.”
The discovery expands the parasite’s known presence in Texas as state and federal officials continue surveillance efforts. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s New World screwworm dashboard tracks confirmed cases and notes that active cases require ongoing treatment and wound management until animals are free of infestation. Even after individual animals recover, infested zones may remain in place while additional surveillance and control measures continue.
New World screwworm is caused by the larvae of the fly Cochliomyia hominivorax, which feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals through existing wounds. The parasite poses a significant threat to livestock, wildlife, pets and, in rare instances, humans. Federal and state officials continue to encourage producers to closely inspect animals for unusual wounds, maggots or signs of infestation and report suspected cases immediately.
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