The state of Texas is facing a significant threat from the New World screwworm fly, a parasitic insect that could have devastating consequences for the state’s cattle industry. With cases reported just 25 miles from the U.S.-Mexico border, officials are ramping up efforts to prevent an outbreak that could disrupt livestock markets and raise already high meat prices.

The New World screwworm fly, known for its flesh-eating larvae, was previously eradicated from the United States in the 1960s. However, recent cases in Mexico and Central America have raised concerns about a potential invasion. The fly’s larvae burrow into the flesh of living animals, causing severe tissue damage and sometimes death. While the primary threat is to livestock, pets, wildlife, and even humans can be affected.

The Current Threat

U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins recently addressed concerns about the screwworm fly’s proximity to the Texas border. She refuted claims by State Rep. Don McLaughlin that the insects were just one mile away, stating that they were actually 25 miles from the border. Rollins emphasized the importance of accurate information to prevent panic and ensure an effective response.

McLaughlin, however, expressed frustration with the federal response, stating that the threat is no longer hundreds of miles away but at the doorstep. He called for a Texas-led emergency response, similar to Operation Lone Star, to protect the state’s billion-dollar cattle industry.

Efforts to Contain the Threat

The USDA has taken several steps to prevent the screwworm fly from affecting cattle and livestock. These include investing $100 million in research, traps, and mounted patrol officers known as tick riders at the border. Additionally, the agency has released sterile male flies to mate with female screwworm flies, making them lay unfertilized eggs. Rollins also ordered the closure of all southern ports of entry to livestock last year.

As of Tuesday, nearly 1,900 active animal cases in Mexico and almost 27,000 since November 2026 have been reported. The USDA has deployed a team to South Texas as part of the USDA’s unified incident management team to work with the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC).

Potential Impact on the Cattle Industry

The New World screwworm fly poses a significant threat to Texas’ cattle industry, which brings in $15 billion a year. The fly’s larvae can infest livestock, causing severe tissue damage and sometimes death. While the risk to the public and food safety is low, the potential economic impact is substantial.

Beef prices are already at record highs, with federal data showing the average price of ground beef at $6.90 per pound this month. That’s a 77% increase since January 2026, when ground beef stood at $3.89 per pound. The potential disruption of livestock markets due to the screwworm fly could further drive up prices.

Long-Term Response and Preparedness

Officials are emphasizing the need for a long-term response to the screwworm fly threat. The New Mexico Department of Agriculture has launched a new website to provide information about the New World screwworm, including how to identify infestations, protect people and animals, and report suspected cases.

The USDA has approved emergency use of several medications for prevention and treatment of the parasite, including ivermectin. However, ranchers must be careful about starting preventive medications too early and overusing them to avoid creating resistance.

Sterile Fly Facilities

To combat the screwworm, the federal government plans to breed sterile male flies and release them into areas with established populations. The sterilized males will mate with females, which will then lay unfertilized eggs. This method progressively reduces and eliminates the fly population.

The USDA has invested in sterile fly facilities in Mexico, Panama, and a new $750 million facility in Edinburg, Texas, that aims to produce up to 300 million sterile flies per week when it opens next year.

Rancher Preparedness

Ranchers are being advised to keep close watch over newborn calves with exposed umbilical cords and rethink branding and tagging operations in case of an infestation. New Mexico has distributed test kits to every county extension office for producers and the general public who suspect cases.

While the market has already been disrupted by the ban on live Mexican cattle imports, officials are confident that the industry is well prepared to fight a domestic screwworm invasion. However, the potential economic impact and the need for a coordinated response remain significant challenges.