Texas Screwworm Cases Reach 26 as Eradication Needs 500 Million Sterile Flies a Week
Updated
Updated · The Texas Tribune · Jun 30
Texas Screwworm Cases Reach 26 as Eradication Needs 500 Million Sterile Flies a Week
2 articles · Updated · The Texas Tribune · Jun 30
Summary
Texas confirmed 26 New World screwworm cases by Monday, raising pressure on state and federal officials to stop the parasite’s northward spread.
Experts say eradication will require 500 million sterile flies each week, but current and planned output falls short: Panama produces about 100 million, Mexico 60-100 million, and Texas’ Edinburg plant 100 million when it opens in 2027.
Mexico has logged nearly 28,000 cases since November 2024, underscoring the risk to Texas livestock and the state’s $41 billion cattle industry if the outbreak is not contained quickly.
Officials said grocery-store beef remains safe because slaughtered animals and carcasses are inspected, while human infestations are possible but uncommon and none have been reported in the U.S.
Investigators have found no evidence tying Texas cases to illicit cattle movement from Mexico, even as political disputes continue over whether budget cuts or border policy helped the pest re-emerge.
With a massive sterile fly production shortfall, is a multi-billion dollar screwworm crisis in the U.S. now unavoidable?
If not from illegal cattle, how did the screwworm return to Texas after a 60-year absence?
Texas Faces Urgent New World Screwworm Outbreak: 500 Million Sterile Flies Needed Weekly for Eradication
Overview
As of June 29, 2026, Texas authorities are taking urgent action to control the New World screwworm outbreak. The response relies on public participation, urging livestock and pet owners to inspect their animals daily for signs of screwworm. This daily vigilance is essential for early detection, which helps prevent the parasite from spreading further. If owners suspect a case, they must report it immediately using a dedicated hotline set up by the Texas Animal Health Commission. Prompt reporting ensures that animal health authorities can quickly investigate and take necessary control measures, making public cooperation a key part of the containment strategy.