Texas launches ‘one stop shop’ website for info on New World screwworm outbreak

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on Friday announced the launch of a “one stop shop” website for comprehensive information related to the New World screwworm, and the state’s response to the outbreak.

The website, which is located in the Texas Division of Emergency Management’s Disaster Portal, provides information on the outbreak of New World screwworm cases. The flesh-eating parasite, which can cause devastating infections or even death for its host organism, poses a massive threat to agriculture and wildlife. It was previously eradicated from the United States in 1966. However, an outbreak in Central America and Mexico that has been ongoing since 2023 has spread north, with the first U.S. case was confirmed earlier this month in Texas.

A dashboard from the U.S. Department of Agriculture shows that cases have been detected in both Texas and New Mexico. On Sunday, the USDA confirmed that three new cases were found in Texas: the parasites were detected on a lamb in Crockett County and two calves in Edwards County. The new cases bring the total number of New World screwworm cases confirmed in the U.S. this year to 15.

The new website is intended to serve as a centralized resource where Texans can find information about the New World screwworm, like fact sheets, videos and educational materials. Other information available on the site includes background information, how to spot the New World screwworm, sample collection procedures, Texas Animal Health Commission zone maps, the USDA’s case dashboard, links to best practices for livestock and wildlife, and details on how to register for the new, no-cost New World screwworm Certified Inspector Training.

While state and federal partners continue to work collaboratively to detect, control and contain the outbreak, a key component of this effort is public outreach and providing access to this information, a news release said.

“The New World screwworm poses a direct threat to Texas livestock, wildlife, and our rural economy,” Abbott said in a statement. “This new website puts essential tools in the hands of our producers, veterinarians, and families. Screwworm.texas.gov delivers the facts, maps, identification methods, and certification resources Texans need to detect problems early and report cases without delay. Now every Texan has the information to act. Texas will protect our land, our animals, and our way of life from this pest.”