USDA Plans to Nearly Quintuple Sterile Fly Production to Combat New World Screwworm
United States
Published · Updated
Summary
- USDA announced plans to significantly scale up its sterile fly production capacity to approximately 500 million flies per week, nearly quintupling current output as part of its long-term strategy to combat the New World screwworm outbreak.
- That production level would match what was originally used decades ago to eradicate the pest from the United States.
- To accelerate innovation, USDA also launched the "NWS Grand Challenge," making up to $100 million available to fund projects that enhance sterile fly production, strengthen preparedness, and improve response strategies.
- The announcement builds on other recent milestones, including the August 24 reopening of the Douglas, Arizona port to cattle imports from Mexico — the first in a phased reopening of southern ports to livestock trade.
- Livestock owners, ranchers, and pet owners are urged to check their animals daily for unusual wounds and report suspected cases immediately to the Texas Animal Health Commission.
- The Texas Animal Health Commission can be reached at 512-719-0700.
- See a map of infested areas here.
Timeline
. The agency also launched the "NWS Grand Challenge," making up to $100 million available to fund innovative projects that enhance sterile fly production and strengthen preparedness and response strategies.
USDA announced plans to scale sterile fly production to approximately 500 million flies per week — matching the historical production level used to originally eradicate screwworm from the US decades ago.
USDA has confirmed 47 total New World screwworm infestations — 46 in Texas and one in New Mexico. The latest case was detected in a goat in Val Verde County on August 25. Admiral Michael B. Schmoyer, the USDA official leading the federal response, said the northern spread of the parasite is slowing, citing expanded surveillance, public vigilance, and targeted sterile fly releases.
Additionally, the Douglas, Arizona port officially reopened to cattle imports from Mexico on August 24, marking the first in a phased reopening of southern ports to livestock trade. New screening and decontamination measures have been placed on imported livestock as part of the reopening.
USDA announced the sterile fly manufacturing facility at Moore Air Base will open seven months ahead of schedule, in spring 2027, with a goal of producing 300 million sterile flies per week by the end of 2028 to help control the screwworm population long-term.
USDA and the Department of Homeland Security signed a new memorandum of understanding to combine USDA's animal health expertise with DHS border security and inspection authorities, aimed at improving detection and response to agricultural threats like screwworm.
Separately, lawmakers are considering the SAFE CATTLE Act, which would formalize a partnership between USDA and the Department of the Interior for wildlife surveillance on federal lands.
USDA has developed a new screwworm strain called NovoFly that yields only male flies for the sterile insect release program — expected to double the operational supply of sterile flies used in eradication efforts.
The USDA confirmed 42 New World screwworm infestations as of July 29 — 41 in Texas and 1 in New Mexico. Only 11 cases remain active, with the rest classified as inactive following response and mitigation efforts. The most recent case was confirmed July 21 in a goat in Sutton County.
Officials plan to resume cattle imports through an Arizona port beginning August 24.
The FDA has also issued an Emergency Use Authorization for a drug providing short-term prevention of New World Screwworm in horses, expanding on the earlier authorization for dogs and cats.
Governor Abbott secured pre-award approval of a cooperative agreement that will allow the Texas Animal Health Commission to hire 15 new positions dedicated to NWS response efforts.
Additionally, the FDA issued an Emergency Use Authorization for generic Nitenpyram Tablets — an over-the-counter treatment that kills most screwworm larvae within hours. Pet owners must administer a second dose six hours after the first. The drug does not prevent future infestations and a veterinarian may still need to remove remaining larvae. It is available for dogs, puppies, cats, and kittens weighing at least two pounds.
The USDA has confirmed 41 New World screwworm infestations as of July 21 — 40 in Texas and 1 in New Mexico. A dozen affected animals are not yet free from the parasite.
Residents are urged to report any animal with unusual wounds to appropriate authorities immediately. If you observe a possible screwworm case, contact the Texas Animal Health Commission.
Additionally, Webb County officials have scheduled a public town hall on the screwworm threat for August 18 at the Laredo ISD Performing Arts Center on San Bernardo Avenue. Doors open at 10 a.m. and presentations begin at 11 a.m. Ranchers, farmers, and pet owners are invited to attend.
Starr County Judge Eloy Vera signed a disaster declaration following the confirmation of the RGV's first screwworm case. "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.
New World Screwworm has been confirmed in Starr County in the Rio Grande Valley — the first case in the region. The case was found on a calf in the western part of the county, north of Roma, on July 19. An infested zone has been established in Starr County in response.
The USDA has confirmed 39 New World screwworm infestations as of July 16 — up from 32 — including 38 in Texas and 1 in New Mexico. The two most recent infestations were confirmed July 14 in sheep in Pecos County.
Importation from other states is permitted as long as the animals have not resided in or transited through Texas during the 21 days prior to export.
Canada has suspended the import of livestock from Texas effective immediately, including cattle, horses, pigs, sheep, goats, deer, and camelids.
Rear Admiral Michael Schmoyer with the USDA says using sterile flies is the most effective way to disrupt the spread of NWS by disrupting their mating cycle. The sterile fly larvae are covered in a green dye. The flies are relatively solitary and prefer wet, moist, or humid environments.
The majority have been released along the Texas-Mexican border and in counties where confirmed cases have been identified.
The USDA has released nearly 400 million sterile flies in Texas since the start of the year in an effort to eradicate the New World Screwworm outbreak.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott urged livestock owners to check their animals daily for wounds, treat wounds promptly, and reduce fly populations around their operations. Anyone suspecting an infection should contact the Texas Animal Health Commission at [512-719-0700](tel:512-719-0700).
21 Texas counties remain under movement restrictions. Warm-blooded animals cannot leave those areas without a certified inspection. All southern ports of entry are currently closed to livestock trade. Infected animals cannot be sold or processed for meat.
As of July 8, the USDA has confirmed 32 New World Screwworm infestations in the US — 31 in Texas and one in New Mexico — across 23 separate premises in 12 Texas counties. The most recent detection, a sheep in Crockett County, was confirmed July 3.
The Texas Animal Health Commission has issued quarantine zones for the following counties: Bandera, Coke, Crockett, Edwards, Gillespie, Jim Hogg, Kerr, Kimble, La Salle, Medina, Pecos, Schleicher, Starr, Sutton, Terrell, Tom Green, Uvalde, Val Verde, Webb, Zapata, Zavala.
Officials have continued to focus on releasing sterile flies to combat the reemerging pests.
A total of 27 animals have been infected.
New confirmed cases of New World Screwworm have been found in several areas across Texas.
Officials confirmed cases in both Texas and New Mexico.
Officials have estimated that the ongoing efforts will take until 2027 to begin pushing the pest south.
Multiple federal agencies have coordinated the continued production of the sterile male flies, with a new facility under construction in Texas to join other plants currently operational in Panama and Mexico.
The NWS has been eradicated previously by breeding sterile male flies and distributing them within known infected areas.
The US is partnering with Mexico and other Latin American countries to restore the boundary that limits NWS to areas north of the Darian Gap, which separates North and South America.
The New World screwworm, or NWS, is a threat to birds, livestock, pets, and other wildlife. Rarely can people become infected.
The parasite was previously eradicated from the United States in 1966.
The New World screwworm is a pest that burrows into live animals and flesh while in the larval stage before becoming flies.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced confirmed cases of New World screwworm in Texas and New Mexico.
Incident reported at United States.
. The agency also launched the "NWS Grand Challenge," making up to $100 million available to fund innovative projects that enhance sterile fly production and strengthen preparedness and response strategies.
USDA announced plans to scale sterile fly production to approximately 500 million flies per week — matching the historical production level used to originally eradicate screwworm from the US decades ago.
USDA has confirmed 47 total New World screwworm infestations — 46 in Texas and one in New Mexico. The latest case was detected in a goat in Val Verde County on August 25. Admiral Michael B. Schmoyer, the USDA official leading the federal response, said the northern spread of the parasite is slowing, citing expanded surveillance, public vigilance, and targeted sterile fly releases.
Additionally, the Douglas, Arizona port officially reopened to cattle imports from Mexico on August 24, marking the first in a phased reopening of southern ports to livestock trade. New screening and decontamination measures have been placed on imported livestock as part of the reopening.
USDA announced the sterile fly manufacturing facility at Moore Air Base will open seven months ahead of schedule, in spring 2027, with a goal of producing 300 million sterile flies per week by the end of 2028 to help control the screwworm population long-term.
USDA and the Department of Homeland Security signed a new memorandum of understanding to combine USDA's animal health expertise with DHS border security and inspection authorities, aimed at improving detection and response to agricultural threats like screwworm.
Separately, lawmakers are considering the SAFE CATTLE Act, which would formalize a partnership between USDA and the Department of the Interior for wildlife surveillance on federal lands.
USDA has developed a new screwworm strain called NovoFly that yields only male flies for the sterile insect release program — expected to double the operational supply of sterile flies used in eradication efforts.
The USDA confirmed 42 New World screwworm infestations as of July 29 — 41 in Texas and 1 in New Mexico. Only 11 cases remain active, with the rest classified as inactive following response and mitigation efforts. The most recent case was confirmed July 21 in a goat in Sutton County.
Officials plan to resume cattle imports through an Arizona port beginning August 24.
The FDA has also issued an Emergency Use Authorization for a drug providing short-term prevention of New World Screwworm in horses, expanding on the earlier authorization for dogs and cats.
Governor Abbott secured pre-award approval of a cooperative agreement that will allow the Texas Animal Health Commission to hire 15 new positions dedicated to NWS response efforts.
Additionally, the FDA issued an Emergency Use Authorization for generic Nitenpyram Tablets — an over-the-counter treatment that kills most screwworm larvae within hours. Pet owners must administer a second dose six hours after the first. The drug does not prevent future infestations and a veterinarian may still need to remove remaining larvae. It is available for dogs, puppies, cats, and kittens weighing at least two pounds.
The USDA has confirmed 41 New World screwworm infestations as of July 21 — 40 in Texas and 1 in New Mexico. A dozen affected animals are not yet free from the parasite.
Residents are urged to report any animal with unusual wounds to appropriate authorities immediately. If you observe a possible screwworm case, contact the Texas Animal Health Commission.
Additionally, Webb County officials have scheduled a public town hall on the screwworm threat for August 18 at the Laredo ISD Performing Arts Center on San Bernardo Avenue. Doors open at 10 a.m. and presentations begin at 11 a.m. Ranchers, farmers, and pet owners are invited to attend.
Starr County Judge Eloy Vera signed a disaster declaration following the confirmation of the RGV's first screwworm case. "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.
New World Screwworm has been confirmed in Starr County in the Rio Grande Valley — the first case in the region. The case was found on a calf in the western part of the county, north of Roma, on July 19. An infested zone has been established in Starr County in response.
The USDA has confirmed 39 New World screwworm infestations as of July 16 — up from 32 — including 38 in Texas and 1 in New Mexico. The two most recent infestations were confirmed July 14 in sheep in Pecos County.
Importation from other states is permitted as long as the animals have not resided in or transited through Texas during the 21 days prior to export.
Canada has suspended the import of livestock from Texas effective immediately, including cattle, horses, pigs, sheep, goats, deer, and camelids.
Rear Admiral Michael Schmoyer with the USDA says using sterile flies is the most effective way to disrupt the spread of NWS by disrupting their mating cycle. The sterile fly larvae are covered in a green dye. The flies are relatively solitary and prefer wet, moist, or humid environments.
The majority have been released along the Texas-Mexican border and in counties where confirmed cases have been identified.
The USDA has released nearly 400 million sterile flies in Texas since the start of the year in an effort to eradicate the New World Screwworm outbreak.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott urged livestock owners to check their animals daily for wounds, treat wounds promptly, and reduce fly populations around their operations. Anyone suspecting an infection should contact the Texas Animal Health Commission at [512-719-0700](tel:512-719-0700).
21 Texas counties remain under movement restrictions. Warm-blooded animals cannot leave those areas without a certified inspection. All southern ports of entry are currently closed to livestock trade. Infected animals cannot be sold or processed for meat.
As of July 8, the USDA has confirmed 32 New World Screwworm infestations in the US — 31 in Texas and one in New Mexico — across 23 separate premises in 12 Texas counties. The most recent detection, a sheep in Crockett County, was confirmed July 3.
The Texas Animal Health Commission has issued quarantine zones for the following counties: Bandera, Coke, Crockett, Edwards, Gillespie, Jim Hogg, Kerr, Kimble, La Salle, Medina, Pecos, Schleicher, Starr, Sutton, Terrell, Tom Green, Uvalde, Val Verde, Webb, Zapata, Zavala.
Officials have continued to focus on releasing sterile flies to combat the reemerging pests.
A total of 27 animals have been infected.
New confirmed cases of New World Screwworm have been found in several areas across Texas.
Officials confirmed cases in both Texas and New Mexico.
Officials have estimated that the ongoing efforts will take until 2027 to begin pushing the pest south.
Multiple federal agencies have coordinated the continued production of the sterile male flies, with a new facility under construction in Texas to join other plants currently operational in Panama and Mexico.
The NWS has been eradicated previously by breeding sterile male flies and distributing them within known infected areas.
The US is partnering with Mexico and other Latin American countries to restore the boundary that limits NWS to areas north of the Darian Gap, which separates North and South America.
The New World screwworm, or NWS, is a threat to birds, livestock, pets, and other wildlife. Rarely can people become infected.
The parasite was previously eradicated from the United States in 1966.
The New World screwworm is a pest that burrows into live animals and flesh while in the larval stage before becoming flies.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced confirmed cases of New World screwworm in Texas and New Mexico.
Incident reported at United States.
. The agency also launched the "NWS Grand Challenge," making up to $100 million available to fund innovative projects that enhance sterile fly production and strengthen preparedness and response strategies.
USDA announced plans to scale sterile fly production to approximately 500 million flies per week — matching the historical production level used to originally eradicate screwworm from the US decades ago.
USDA has confirmed 47 total New World screwworm infestations — 46 in Texas and one in New Mexico. The latest case was detected in a goat in Val Verde County on August 25. Admiral Michael B. Schmoyer, the USDA official leading the federal response, said the northern spread of the parasite is slowing, citing expanded surveillance, public vigilance, and targeted sterile fly releases.
Additionally, the Douglas, Arizona port officially reopened to cattle imports from Mexico on August 24, marking the first in a phased reopening of southern ports to livestock trade. New screening and decontamination measures have been placed on imported livestock as part of the reopening.
USDA announced the sterile fly manufacturing facility at Moore Air Base will open seven months ahead of schedule, in spring 2027, with a goal of producing 300 million sterile flies per week by the end of 2028 to help control the screwworm population long-term.
USDA and the Department of Homeland Security signed a new memorandum of understanding to combine USDA's animal health expertise with DHS border security and inspection authorities, aimed at improving detection and response to agricultural threats like screwworm.
Separately, lawmakers are considering the SAFE CATTLE Act, which would formalize a partnership between USDA and the Department of the Interior for wildlife surveillance on federal lands.
USDA has developed a new screwworm strain called NovoFly that yields only male flies for the sterile insect release program — expected to double the operational supply of sterile flies used in eradication efforts.
The USDA confirmed 42 New World screwworm infestations as of July 29 — 41 in Texas and 1 in New Mexico. Only 11 cases remain active, with the rest classified as inactive following response and mitigation efforts. The most recent case was confirmed July 21 in a goat in Sutton County.
Officials plan to resume cattle imports through an Arizona port beginning August 24.
The FDA has also issued an Emergency Use Authorization for a drug providing short-term prevention of New World Screwworm in horses, expanding on the earlier authorization for dogs and cats.
Governor Abbott secured pre-award approval of a cooperative agreement that will allow the Texas Animal Health Commission to hire 15 new positions dedicated to NWS response efforts.
Additionally, the FDA issued an Emergency Use Authorization for generic Nitenpyram Tablets — an over-the-counter treatment that kills most screwworm larvae within hours. Pet owners must administer a second dose six hours after the first. The drug does not prevent future infestations and a veterinarian may still need to remove remaining larvae. It is available for dogs, puppies, cats, and kittens weighing at least two pounds.
The USDA has confirmed 41 New World screwworm infestations as of July 21 — 40 in Texas and 1 in New Mexico. A dozen affected animals are not yet free from the parasite.
Residents are urged to report any animal with unusual wounds to appropriate authorities immediately. If you observe a possible screwworm case, contact the Texas Animal Health Commission.
Additionally, Webb County officials have scheduled a public town hall on the screwworm threat for August 18 at the Laredo ISD Performing Arts Center on San Bernardo Avenue. Doors open at 10 a.m. and presentations begin at 11 a.m. Ranchers, farmers, and pet owners are invited to attend.
Starr County Judge Eloy Vera signed a disaster declaration following the confirmation of the RGV's first screwworm case. "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.
New World Screwworm has been confirmed in Starr County in the Rio Grande Valley — the first case in the region. The case was found on a calf in the western part of the county, north of Roma, on July 19. An infested zone has been established in Starr County in response.
The USDA has confirmed 39 New World screwworm infestations as of July 16 — up from 32 — including 38 in Texas and 1 in New Mexico. The two most recent infestations were confirmed July 14 in sheep in Pecos County.
Importation from other states is permitted as long as the animals have not resided in or transited through Texas during the 21 days prior to export.
Canada has suspended the import of livestock from Texas effective immediately, including cattle, horses, pigs, sheep, goats, deer, and camelids.
Rear Admiral Michael Schmoyer with the USDA says using sterile flies is the most effective way to disrupt the spread of NWS by disrupting their mating cycle. The sterile fly larvae are covered in a green dye. The flies are relatively solitary and prefer wet, moist, or humid environments.
The majority have been released along the Texas-Mexican border and in counties where confirmed cases have been identified.
The USDA has released nearly 400 million sterile flies in Texas since the start of the year in an effort to eradicate the New World Screwworm outbreak.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott urged livestock owners to check their animals daily for wounds, treat wounds promptly, and reduce fly populations around their operations. Anyone suspecting an infection should contact the Texas Animal Health Commission at [512-719-0700](tel:512-719-0700).
21 Texas counties remain under movement restrictions. Warm-blooded animals cannot leave those areas without a certified inspection. All southern ports of entry are currently closed to livestock trade. Infected animals cannot be sold or processed for meat.
As of July 8, the USDA has confirmed 32 New World Screwworm infestations in the US — 31 in Texas and one in New Mexico — across 23 separate premises in 12 Texas counties. The most recent detection, a sheep in Crockett County, was confirmed July 3.
The Texas Animal Health Commission has issued quarantine zones for the following counties: Bandera, Coke, Crockett, Edwards, Gillespie, Jim Hogg, Kerr, Kimble, La Salle, Medina, Pecos, Schleicher, Starr, Sutton, Terrell, Tom Green, Uvalde, Val Verde, Webb, Zapata, Zavala.
Officials have continued to focus on releasing sterile flies to combat the reemerging pests.
A total of 27 animals have been infected.
New confirmed cases of New World Screwworm have been found in several areas across Texas.
Officials confirmed cases in both Texas and New Mexico.
Officials have estimated that the ongoing efforts will take until 2027 to begin pushing the pest south.
Multiple federal agencies have coordinated the continued production of the sterile male flies, with a new facility under construction in Texas to join other plants currently operational in Panama and Mexico.
The NWS has been eradicated previously by breeding sterile male flies and distributing them within known infected areas.
The US is partnering with Mexico and other Latin American countries to restore the boundary that limits NWS to areas north of the Darian Gap, which separates North and South America.
The New World screwworm, or NWS, is a threat to birds, livestock, pets, and other wildlife. Rarely can people become infected.
The parasite was previously eradicated from the United States in 1966.
The New World screwworm is a pest that burrows into live animals and flesh while in the larval stage before becoming flies.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced confirmed cases of New World screwworm in Texas and New Mexico.
Incident reported at United States.
. The agency also launched the "NWS Grand Challenge," making up to $100 million available to fund innovative projects that enhance sterile fly production and strengthen preparedness and response strategies.
USDA announced plans to scale sterile fly production to approximately 500 million flies per week — matching the historical production level used to originally eradicate screwworm from the US decades ago.
USDA has confirmed 47 total New World screwworm infestations — 46 in Texas and one in New Mexico. The latest case was detected in a goat in Val Verde County on August 25. Admiral Michael B. Schmoyer, the USDA official leading the federal response, said the northern spread of the parasite is slowing, citing expanded surveillance, public vigilance, and targeted sterile fly releases.
Additionally, the Douglas, Arizona port officially reopened to cattle imports from Mexico on August 24, marking the first in a phased reopening of southern ports to livestock trade. New screening and decontamination measures have been placed on imported livestock as part of the reopening.
USDA announced the sterile fly manufacturing facility at Moore Air Base will open seven months ahead of schedule, in spring 2027, with a goal of producing 300 million sterile flies per week by the end of 2028 to help control the screwworm population long-term.
USDA and the Department of Homeland Security signed a new memorandum of understanding to combine USDA's animal health expertise with DHS border security and inspection authorities, aimed at improving detection and response to agricultural threats like screwworm.
Separately, lawmakers are considering the SAFE CATTLE Act, which would formalize a partnership between USDA and the Department of the Interior for wildlife surveillance on federal lands.
USDA has developed a new screwworm strain called NovoFly that yields only male flies for the sterile insect release program — expected to double the operational supply of sterile flies used in eradication efforts.
The USDA confirmed 42 New World screwworm infestations as of July 29 — 41 in Texas and 1 in New Mexico. Only 11 cases remain active, with the rest classified as inactive following response and mitigation efforts. The most recent case was confirmed July 21 in a goat in Sutton County.
Officials plan to resume cattle imports through an Arizona port beginning August 24.
The FDA has also issued an Emergency Use Authorization for a drug providing short-term prevention of New World Screwworm in horses, expanding on the earlier authorization for dogs and cats.
Governor Abbott secured pre-award approval of a cooperative agreement that will allow the Texas Animal Health Commission to hire 15 new positions dedicated to NWS response efforts.
Additionally, the FDA issued an Emergency Use Authorization for generic Nitenpyram Tablets — an over-the-counter treatment that kills most screwworm larvae within hours. Pet owners must administer a second dose six hours after the first. The drug does not prevent future infestations and a veterinarian may still need to remove remaining larvae. It is available for dogs, puppies, cats, and kittens weighing at least two pounds.
The USDA has confirmed 41 New World screwworm infestations as of July 21 — 40 in Texas and 1 in New Mexico. A dozen affected animals are not yet free from the parasite.
Residents are urged to report any animal with unusual wounds to appropriate authorities immediately. If you observe a possible screwworm case, contact the Texas Animal Health Commission.
Additionally, Webb County officials have scheduled a public town hall on the screwworm threat for August 18 at the Laredo ISD Performing Arts Center on San Bernardo Avenue. Doors open at 10 a.m. and presentations begin at 11 a.m. Ranchers, farmers, and pet owners are invited to attend.
Starr County Judge Eloy Vera signed a disaster declaration following the confirmation of the RGV's first screwworm case. "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.
New World Screwworm has been confirmed in Starr County in the Rio Grande Valley — the first case in the region. The case was found on a calf in the western part of the county, north of Roma, on July 19. An infested zone has been established in Starr County in response.
The USDA has confirmed 39 New World screwworm infestations as of July 16 — up from 32 — including 38 in Texas and 1 in New Mexico. The two most recent infestations were confirmed July 14 in sheep in Pecos County.
Importation from other states is permitted as long as the animals have not resided in or transited through Texas during the 21 days prior to export.
Canada has suspended the import of livestock from Texas effective immediately, including cattle, horses, pigs, sheep, goats, deer, and camelids.
Rear Admiral Michael Schmoyer with the USDA says using sterile flies is the most effective way to disrupt the spread of NWS by disrupting their mating cycle. The sterile fly larvae are covered in a green dye. The flies are relatively solitary and prefer wet, moist, or humid environments.
The majority have been released along the Texas-Mexican border and in counties where confirmed cases have been identified.
The USDA has released nearly 400 million sterile flies in Texas since the start of the year in an effort to eradicate the New World Screwworm outbreak.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott urged livestock owners to check their animals daily for wounds, treat wounds promptly, and reduce fly populations around their operations. Anyone suspecting an infection should contact the Texas Animal Health Commission at [512-719-0700](tel:512-719-0700).
21 Texas counties remain under movement restrictions. Warm-blooded animals cannot leave those areas without a certified inspection. All southern ports of entry are currently closed to livestock trade. Infected animals cannot be sold or processed for meat.
As of July 8, the USDA has confirmed 32 New World Screwworm infestations in the US — 31 in Texas and one in New Mexico — across 23 separate premises in 12 Texas counties. The most recent detection, a sheep in Crockett County, was confirmed July 3.
The Texas Animal Health Commission has issued quarantine zones for the following counties: Bandera, Coke, Crockett, Edwards, Gillespie, Jim Hogg, Kerr, Kimble, La Salle, Medina, Pecos, Schleicher, Starr, Sutton, Terrell, Tom Green, Uvalde, Val Verde, Webb, Zapata, Zavala.
Officials have continued to focus on releasing sterile flies to combat the reemerging pests.
A total of 27 animals have been infected.
New confirmed cases of New World Screwworm have been found in several areas across Texas.
Officials confirmed cases in both Texas and New Mexico.
Officials have estimated that the ongoing efforts will take until 2027 to begin pushing the pest south.
Multiple federal agencies have coordinated the continued production of the sterile male flies, with a new facility under construction in Texas to join other plants currently operational in Panama and Mexico.
The NWS has been eradicated previously by breeding sterile male flies and distributing them within known infected areas.
The US is partnering with Mexico and other Latin American countries to restore the boundary that limits NWS to areas north of the Darian Gap, which separates North and South America.
The New World screwworm, or NWS, is a threat to birds, livestock, pets, and other wildlife. Rarely can people become infected.
The parasite was previously eradicated from the United States in 1966.
The New World screwworm is a pest that burrows into live animals and flesh while in the larval stage before becoming flies.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced confirmed cases of New World screwworm in Texas and New Mexico.
Incident reported at United States.
. The agency also launched the "NWS Grand Challenge," making up to $100 million available to fund innovative projects that enhance sterile fly production and strengthen preparedness and response strategies.
USDA announced plans to scale sterile fly production to approximately 500 million flies per week — matching the historical production level used to originally eradicate screwworm from the US decades ago.
USDA has confirmed 47 total New World screwworm infestations — 46 in Texas and one in New Mexico. The latest case was detected in a goat in Val Verde County on August 25. Admiral Michael B. Schmoyer, the USDA official leading the federal response, said the northern spread of the parasite is slowing, citing expanded surveillance, public vigilance, and targeted sterile fly releases.
Additionally, the Douglas, Arizona port officially reopened to cattle imports from Mexico on August 24, marking the first in a phased reopening of southern ports to livestock trade. New screening and decontamination measures have been placed on imported livestock as part of the reopening.
USDA announced the sterile fly manufacturing facility at Moore Air Base will open seven months ahead of schedule, in spring 2027, with a goal of producing 300 million sterile flies per week by the end of 2028 to help control the screwworm population long-term.
USDA and the Department of Homeland Security signed a new memorandum of understanding to combine USDA's animal health expertise with DHS border security and inspection authorities, aimed at improving detection and response to agricultural threats like screwworm.
Separately, lawmakers are considering the SAFE CATTLE Act, which would formalize a partnership between USDA and the Department of the Interior for wildlife surveillance on federal lands.
USDA has developed a new screwworm strain called NovoFly that yields only male flies for the sterile insect release program — expected to double the operational supply of sterile flies used in eradication efforts.
The USDA confirmed 42 New World screwworm infestations as of July 29 — 41 in Texas and 1 in New Mexico. Only 11 cases remain active, with the rest classified as inactive following response and mitigation efforts. The most recent case was confirmed July 21 in a goat in Sutton County.
Officials plan to resume cattle imports through an Arizona port beginning August 24.
The FDA has also issued an Emergency Use Authorization for a drug providing short-term prevention of New World Screwworm in horses, expanding on the earlier authorization for dogs and cats.
Governor Abbott secured pre-award approval of a cooperative agreement that will allow the Texas Animal Health Commission to hire 15 new positions dedicated to NWS response efforts.
Additionally, the FDA issued an Emergency Use Authorization for generic Nitenpyram Tablets — an over-the-counter treatment that kills most screwworm larvae within hours. Pet owners must administer a second dose six hours after the first. The drug does not prevent future infestations and a veterinarian may still need to remove remaining larvae. It is available for dogs, puppies, cats, and kittens weighing at least two pounds.
The USDA has confirmed 41 New World screwworm infestations as of July 21 — 40 in Texas and 1 in New Mexico. A dozen affected animals are not yet free from the parasite.
Residents are urged to report any animal with unusual wounds to appropriate authorities immediately. If you observe a possible screwworm case, contact the Texas Animal Health Commission.
Additionally, Webb County officials have scheduled a public town hall on the screwworm threat for August 18 at the Laredo ISD Performing Arts Center on San Bernardo Avenue. Doors open at 10 a.m. and presentations begin at 11 a.m. Ranchers, farmers, and pet owners are invited to attend.
Starr County Judge Eloy Vera signed a disaster declaration following the confirmation of the RGV's first screwworm case. "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.
New World Screwworm has been confirmed in Starr County in the Rio Grande Valley — the first case in the region. The case was found on a calf in the western part of the county, north of Roma, on July 19. An infested zone has been established in Starr County in response.
The USDA has confirmed 39 New World screwworm infestations as of July 16 — up from 32 — including 38 in Texas and 1 in New Mexico. The two most recent infestations were confirmed July 14 in sheep in Pecos County.
Importation from other states is permitted as long as the animals have not resided in or transited through Texas during the 21 days prior to export.
Canada has suspended the import of livestock from Texas effective immediately, including cattle, horses, pigs, sheep, goats, deer, and camelids.
Rear Admiral Michael Schmoyer with the USDA says using sterile flies is the most effective way to disrupt the spread of NWS by disrupting their mating cycle. The sterile fly larvae are covered in a green dye. The flies are relatively solitary and prefer wet, moist, or humid environments.
The majority have been released along the Texas-Mexican border and in counties where confirmed cases have been identified.
The USDA has released nearly 400 million sterile flies in Texas since the start of the year in an effort to eradicate the New World Screwworm outbreak.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott urged livestock owners to check their animals daily for wounds, treat wounds promptly, and reduce fly populations around their operations. Anyone suspecting an infection should contact the Texas Animal Health Commission at [512-719-0700](tel:512-719-0700).
21 Texas counties remain under movement restrictions. Warm-blooded animals cannot leave those areas without a certified inspection. All southern ports of entry are currently closed to livestock trade. Infected animals cannot be sold or processed for meat.
As of July 8, the USDA has confirmed 32 New World Screwworm infestations in the US — 31 in Texas and one in New Mexico — across 23 separate premises in 12 Texas counties. The most recent detection, a sheep in Crockett County, was confirmed July 3.
The Texas Animal Health Commission has issued quarantine zones for the following counties: Bandera, Coke, Crockett, Edwards, Gillespie, Jim Hogg, Kerr, Kimble, La Salle, Medina, Pecos, Schleicher, Starr, Sutton, Terrell, Tom Green, Uvalde, Val Verde, Webb, Zapata, Zavala.
Officials have continued to focus on releasing sterile flies to combat the reemerging pests.
A total of 27 animals have been infected.
New confirmed cases of New World Screwworm have been found in several areas across Texas.
Officials confirmed cases in both Texas and New Mexico.
Officials have estimated that the ongoing efforts will take until 2027 to begin pushing the pest south.
Multiple federal agencies have coordinated the continued production of the sterile male flies, with a new facility under construction in Texas to join other plants currently operational in Panama and Mexico.
The NWS has been eradicated previously by breeding sterile male flies and distributing them within known infected areas.
The US is partnering with Mexico and other Latin American countries to restore the boundary that limits NWS to areas north of the Darian Gap, which separates North and South America.
The New World screwworm, or NWS, is a threat to birds, livestock, pets, and other wildlife. Rarely can people become infected.
The parasite was previously eradicated from the United States in 1966.
The New World screwworm is a pest that burrows into live animals and flesh while in the larval stage before becoming flies.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced confirmed cases of New World screwworm in Texas and New Mexico.
Incident reported at United States.
Stay up-to-date
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Bro it’s always something 😭
@chicagoUser1817385014 Yeah those illegal cow crossing over, those unaccompanied calf’s!
This notification made it seem like a Zombie Apocalypse was actually happening 😭
@DaY_ShOn yap yap yap ratio
Turning America into third world, thanks T for cutting all the programs that protected people
@Northstar7345 Republicans doing it all in their own and need no help.
They literally defunded the program that already existed for this and now look where we’re back at.
This!!!
Bro it’s always something 😭
@chicagoUser1817385014 Yeah those illegal cow crossing over, those unaccompanied calf’s!
This notification made it seem like a Zombie Apocalypse was actually happening 😭
@DaY_ShOn yap yap yap ratio
Turning America into third world, thanks T for cutting all the programs that protected people
@Northstar7345 Republicans doing it all in their own and need no help.
They literally defunded the program that already existed for this and now look where we’re back at.
This!!!
Bro it’s always something 😭
@chicagoUser1817385014 Yeah those illegal cow crossing over, those unaccompanied calf’s!
This notification made it seem like a Zombie Apocalypse was actually happening 😭
@DaY_ShOn yap yap yap ratio
Turning America into third world, thanks T for cutting all the programs that protected people
@Northstar7345 Republicans doing it all in their own and need no help.
They literally defunded the program that already existed for this and now look where we’re back at.
This!!!
Bro it’s always something 😭
@chicagoUser1817385014 Yeah those illegal cow crossing over, those unaccompanied calf’s!
This notification made it seem like a Zombie Apocalypse was actually happening 😭
@DaY_ShOn yap yap yap ratio
Turning America into third world, thanks T for cutting all the programs that protected people
@Northstar7345 Republicans doing it all in their own and need no help.
They literally defunded the program that already existed for this and now look where we’re back at.
This!!!
Stay informed on local incidents
Download Citizen
Bro it’s always something 😭
@chicagoUser1817385014 Yeah those illegal cow crossing over, those unaccompanied calf’s!
This notification made it seem like a Zombie Apocalypse was actually happening 😭
@DaY_ShOn yap yap yap ratio
Turning America into third world, thanks T for cutting all the programs that protected people
@Northstar7345 Republicans doing it all in their own and need no help.
They literally defunded the program that already existed for this and now look where we’re back at.
This!!!