By Jamie Martin
A recent human case of New World screwworm in the United States has drawn attention across agriculture and public health. The Maryland Department of Health confirmed the patient has recovered, with no evidence of spread to others or animals.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) first confirmed the case on August 4, linked to a traveler returning from El Salvador. However, the case was only made public weeks later, prompting industry criticism over slow disclosure.
Livestock groups expressed frustration. Neal Wilkins of the East Foundation said withholding information damages trust between agencies and producers. Bill Bullard, CEO of R-CALF USA, stressed that livestock producers depend on timely updates to safeguard herds and prevent market disruptions.
Despite the case, USDA officials did not mention it during an August 15 announcement of a $750 million facility in Texas aimed at sterile fly production to combat screwworm. Questions remain about USDA’s coordination with CDC.
New World screwworms are destructive parasites. The flies deposit eggs in animal wounds, and the larvae feed on living tissue. While humans can be affected, cattle and other livestock face the greatest risk, as untreated infestations can kill animals within days.
Recent detections of screwworm in Mexico have already led the U.S. to tighten livestock import restrictions. With the parasite’s history of damaging cattle herds, industry leaders say full transparency is essential to prevent future outbreaks.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-minchen-liang-eyeem
Categories: National