General · Texas behavioral health news
New World Screwworm Information for Healthcare Providers
Texas DSHS · By Ilza.Garcia · June 12, 2026
In plain language
The New World screwworm is a parasitic fly that lays eggs in the wounds or body openings of warm-blooded animals and humans. These eggs hatch into larvae that feed on living tissue, causing significant pain, foul-smelling sores, and a feeling of movement in the skin. While once eradicated from the United States, an animal case was found in Texas in 2026. If you suspect an infestation, you should see a doctor immediately to have the larvae professionally removed.
AI-generated summary of the source article. Not medical advice.
Key takeaways
- New World screwworm larvae feed on live flesh and can grow up to two-thirds of an inch long.
- The first U.S. animal case since the 1960s was detected in Zavala County, Texas, in June 2026.
- Symptoms include deep, painful, and foul-smelling wounds where larvae may be visible.
- Infestations must be treated by a healthcare professional who can safely remove all larvae and eggs.
- Improper disposal of live larvae can cause the parasite to spread into the local environment.
- You can reduce risk by keeping wounds covered and using EPA-registered insect repellent in affected areas.
New World Screwworm Information for Healthcare Providers Ilza.Garcia Fri, 06/12/2026 - 09:18 AM New World Screwworm Information for Healthcare Providers This page provides information about New World Screwworm Information for Healthcare Providers . Healthcare providers play a critical role in stopping New World screwworm (NWS). Clinicians should remain vigilant when seeing patients who have traveled in areas where the fly is present and report all suspected NWS cases to their local health department or regional zoonosis control office immediately. Background New World screwworm myiasis is caused by an infestation with the larvae of Cochliomyia hominivorax, a parasitic fly that feeds on live tissue. NWS infestation begins when a female fly lays eggs near wounds or on mucous membranes (nose, ears, mouth) of warm-blooded animals. Within a day, multiple eggs can hatch into larvae and begin to feed. People with NWS infestations may report pain and see or feel movement in the aff
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