RIO GRANDE VALLEY, Texas — Federal agriculture officials have confirmed New World screwworm cases in Starr County, including an active case in a dog, according to reporting based on U.S. Department of Agriculture information.
New World screwworm is a parasitic fly whose larvae can infest wounds in warm-blooded animals. It can affect livestock, wildlife and pets. The Texas Animal Health Commission lists Starr County among counties subject to movement restrictions connected to the established New World screwworm infested zone.
Pet owners and livestock producers should monitor animals for wounds that do not heal normally and seek veterinary guidance promptly if they have concerns. The USDA and state agencies continue surveillance, reporting and control efforts as cases are identified.
USDA’s public dashboard tracks confirmed detections by county, animal type, species, confirmation date and case status. The agency has said the disease is an animal-health threat and has emphasized early reporting and coordinated response measures.
Sources: KRGV; Texas Animal Health Commission; USDA APHIS
