The New World screwworm is a parasite that infests livestock, with larvae feeding on flesh from wounds. Recently, a plan to reopen U.S.-Mexico livestock crossings was halted due to a sighting 370 miles from the border. Following a 1972 outbreak, the U.S. collaborated with Mexico to eradicate it, but sightings have reemerged in southern Mexico. To combat this pest, sterile male flies are bred and released to disrupt reproduction. Although it can infect humans, cases are rare and treatment involves wound management.
A plan to reopen U.S.-Mexico crossings to livestock was scuttled after the discovery of a New World screwworm 370 miles south of the border.
The New World screwworm is a parasite whose larvae hatch in wounds on mammals and feed on the host's flesh and fluids.
After a devastating 1972 outbreak in six states, the United States worked with Mexico to largely eradicate the screwworm.
The principal method to combat the screwworm is to breed sterile male flies and release them, which results in non-viable eggs.
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