USDA confirms flesh-eating New World screwworm found in US wildlife, in elk in Texas
The Guardian US reported on October 21 that USDA confirmed the flesh-eating New World screwworm parasite found in US wildlife. The report said it was found in elk in Texas. USDA warned hunters and ranchers to be vigilant to help stop the spread. The summary reviewed did not state how many animals were affected or where exactly the elk were found.
Detection in wildlife makes it harder to contain the parasite than when it appears only in livestock. Hunters and ranchers are the people most likely to spot early signs.
If you hunt or raise livestock in affected areas, follow USDA guidance and report suspicious animals. For others there is no direct effect.
USDA's position is that vigilance by hunters and ranchers can help stop the spread.
Ranchers would be concerned about the risk to cattle, though the report reviewed did not quote them.
Confirmed: USDA found the parasite in elk in Texas, per the Guardian US. Not confirmed: the extent of the spread. Watch for further USDA announcements today.
DailyDrop U.S. No. 18 · October 22, 2026