LUBBOCK, TEXAS (RFD NEWS) — A second confirmed New World screwworm case in Zavala County, Texas, is intensifying the response for ranchers already facing quarantine, surveillance, and livestock movement controls.
USDA says the latest detection, confirmed June 5, involved a one-month-old calf about 5.6 miles from the first case. Other nearby suspect samples tested negative, according to the agency.
Federal and Texas officials are operating under unified incident command. The response includes a 20-kilometer infested zone, movement restrictions, expanded trapping, wildlife surveillance, and treatment supplies staged through the National Veterinary Stockpile.
USDA began aerial sterile fly releases on June 4, dispersing 2 million sterile screwworms twice weekly. Another 4 million sterile flies per week are being shipped for release through 24 ground chambers.
Governor Greg Abbott has issued a statewide disaster proclamation as Texas coordinates livestock and wildlife response. Producers are urged to inspect wounds, especially navels, on newborn animals and report suspect cases promptly.
Texas animal health officials and federal agencies are intensifying response efforts after the USDA confirmed two additional cases of New World screwworm in the state, including infections in cattle and a dog.
Dr. Jennifer Koziol with the Texas Tech School of Veterinary Medicine joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to discuss the latest developments and what producers should know as surveillance and containment efforts continue.
In her interview with RFD News, Koziol provided an update on response measures underway at the local, state, and federal levels, noting that animal health officials, veterinarians, and livestock organizations are working together to increase monitoring, investigate potential cases, and keep producers informed as the situation evolves.
She also discussed the role Texas Tech’s School of Veterinary Medicine can play in supporting response efforts through veterinary expertise, producer outreach, education, and disease surveillance.
The conversation also focused on what livestock producers should keep in mind following the additional confirmations, including the importance of closely monitoring animals for wounds or signs of infestation, maintaining communication with veterinarians, and promptly reporting any suspected cases.
Koziol also addressed potential implications for livestock transportation, explaining that animal movement protocols and inspections remain important tools for preventing the spread of the pest while allowing commerce to continue safely. Looking ahead, she said, continued vigilance, surveillance, and coordination among producers, veterinarians, and regulatory agencies will be critical to limiting the impact of New World screwworm and protecting the livestock industry.
Finally, Koziol encouraged producers to familiarize themselves with signs of infestation and contact their veterinarian or animal health officials immediately if they suspect an animal may be affected.
