Officials confirm flesh-eating New World screwworm parasite found in US wildlife

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) confirmed on Wednesday the first detection of the flesh-eating New World screwworm in US wildlife, specifically in an elk located in Pecos County, Texas. The elk was found on a game ranch and reported after being harvested by a hunter.

In response to this finding, the Texas Animal Health Commission will modify a previously established infested zone. The USDA, along with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, is conducting additional wildlife surveillance in the area.