New World screwworm fly

The New World screwworm fly (NWS) is a parasitic insect that has reappeared in the United States, marking its first sighting in decades. This flesh-eating parasite is particularly concerning for the country's cattle industry. Recently, an NWS infestation was confirmed in a calf in southern Texas, approximately 50 miles from the Mexican border. This alarming development has prompted action from agriculture officials, including the use of sterile fly production facilities to combat the northward spread of the pest. The reappearance of the NWS, which was once thought to be eradicated in the US, highlights its potential threat to livestock and underscores the ongoing efforts to control its population and prevent further proliferation.