ENVIRONMENT

Confirmed Screwworm Cases Prompt Regional Agricultural Response

PUBLISHED Jun 9, 2026, 6:39 AM ET

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La Salle County, Texas: the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Texas animal health officials confirmed an additional New World screwworm case in a calf this week, joining multiple detections first announced on June 3. Federal teams from the National Veterinary Services Lab in Ames have been dispatched and joint investigations and testing expanded in affected areas. Idaho and Louisiana implemented new animal movement restrictions and heightened surveillance this week in response, and USDA and state partners increased trapping, testing, outreach, and sterile-insect release operations. Officials said immediate steps include case tracing, on-site diagnostics, and coordination with local veterinarians while regulatory certificates and transport documentation were tightened for animals from affected zones.

By James Porter | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Over the past year the pest advanced northward through Mexico toward the U.S. border.
June 3: USDA confirmed the first U.S. case in Zavala County, Texas.
Early June: Additional cases were confirmed, including a calf in La Salle County.
USDA deployed a National Veterinary Services Lab team from Ames to Texas and expanded testing.
States including Idaho and Louisiana issued animal movement restrictions and increased surveillance.

News Intelligence

Screwworms are a threat to livestock, pets, and even humans. If you're in an affected area, be vigilant. Check your animals regularly for signs of infection. Report any unusual wounds to your vet or local agricultural office.

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Who Benefited

Federal and state veterinary agencies, diagnostic laboratories, and sterile-insect program contractors have increased operational activity and may receive additional funding and coordination opportunities as a result of the confirmed detections.

Who Impacted

Ranchers, livestock owners, and regional agricultural economies face immediate losses, increased biosecurity costs, movement restrictions, and potential long-term market impacts due to confirmed screwworm detections.

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