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Texas Issues Disaster Declaration for Screw Worm Resurgence

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. aster-declaration-for-screw-worm-resurgence.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Sunday, February 1st 2026 at 16:00 GMT by Houston Public Media
      Locales: Texas, UNITED STATES

AUSTIN, TX - Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued a disaster declaration today, February 1st, 2026, for 25 counties along the southern border, as a resurgent and highly aggressive strain of the New World Screw Worm parasite continues its northward march. The declaration, a proactive measure responding to a growing crisis, unlocks state resources and funding to bolster preparedness and containment efforts, potentially preventing a widespread outbreak that could devastate the state's agricultural industry and pose a low, but existing, risk to human health.

The screw worm, Cochliomyia hominivorax, was officially eradicated from the United States in 1987 after a decades-long, collaborative effort between the U.S. and Mexico. Its re-emergence, originating in Mexico, represents a significant setback for animal health and a testament to the challenges of maintaining eradication programs across international borders. The current strain is particularly concerning due to its increased rate of reproduction and resistance to some previously effective treatments.

"This isn't simply a return of an old problem; it's a new, more potent threat," explained Dr. Eleanor Vance, lead parasitologist at the Texas Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory. "We're seeing faster larval development and a wider host range in the initial cases detected. This parasite is incredibly efficient at exploiting even minor wounds on warm-blooded animals, and its ability to rapidly multiply means even a small infestation can quickly become unmanageable."

The New World Screw Worm derives its name from the distinctive spiral shape of the adult fly and its particularly gruesome reproductive strategy. Female flies lay their eggs in open wounds - naturally occurring scrapes, surgical incisions, or even insect bites - of mammals, including livestock like cattle, horses, sheep, and goats. The hatched larvae then burrow into the host's living tissue, feeding on muscle and causing excruciating pain, secondary infections, and, if left untreated, potentially fatal complications.

Before eradication, the economic impact of screw worm infestations was staggering, costing the U.S. livestock industry hundreds of millions of dollars annually. The declaration allows for the rapid deployment of veterinary teams, diagnostic labs, and critical supplies - including insecticides and sterile fly release technology - to the most vulnerable areas. Sterile fly technology, a cornerstone of the original eradication program, involves releasing millions of lab-reared, sterilized male flies into the wild. These sterile males compete with native, fertile males, significantly reducing the number of viable eggs laid.

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller emphasized the importance of a coordinated response. "We're working hand-in-hand with the USDA, local veterinarians, and ranching communities to implement a multi-pronged strategy. Surveillance is crucial, and we're asking all livestock owners to meticulously inspect their animals for any signs of infestation - open wounds, abnormal swelling, or behavioral changes indicative of pain."

The disaster declaration also facilitates increased biosecurity measures at ports of entry, aiming to prevent the introduction of infected animals or flies from Mexico. Cross-border collaboration is paramount, and Governor Abbott has been in constant communication with Mexican officials to coordinate efforts and implement a unified control plan. Discussions are underway regarding enhanced surveillance on the Mexican side of the border and joint programs to address the underlying factors contributing to the resurgence of the parasite, including habitat changes and potential gaps in existing eradication programs.

While the primary concern remains the health and economic well-being of the livestock industry, health officials are advising caution regarding potential human infections. Although rare, screw worm myiasis - infestation of human skin with screw worm larvae - can occur, particularly in individuals with compromised immune systems or those living in close proximity to infected animals. Symptoms in humans include localized pain, inflammation, and the presence of visible larvae in wounds. Public health officials are urging residents to practice good wound care and seek immediate medical attention if they suspect a screw worm infestation.

The situation is evolving rapidly, and the long-term impact remains uncertain. However, the proactive steps taken by the state of Texas demonstrate a commitment to protecting its agricultural heritage and the health of its citizens. The coming weeks will be critical in determining the effectiveness of these efforts and preventing a full-scale outbreak of this devastating parasite.