The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has confirmed a case of New World screwworm in Zavala County, Texas, marking the first reported U.S. case during the current outbreak.

According to a news release, the affected animal was a 3-week-old calf with larvae present in an umbilical lesion, according to USDA officials. While New World screwworm is considered a significant animal health concern, officials emphasized that it is not a food safety or food quality issue.

The pest, which was eradicated from the United States in the 1960s, poses a serious threat to warm-blooded animals. Unlike many fly larvae that feed on dead tissue, New World screwworm larvae feed on living tissue, creating severe wounds and potentially fatal infections if left untreated.

“USDA has worked diligently to monitor this situation and respond quickly as the threat has moved northward. I commend Secretary Brooke Rollins and USDA animal health professionals for their proactive monitoring and implementing aggressive plans to contain and eradicate New World screwworm.” Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Commissioner Rick Pate said in the release. “Protecting Alabama's cattle industry and livestock producers remains our top priority. We are closely monitoring the situation and maintaining strong communication with our federal partners.”

Alabama officials are urging livestock producers and others who work with animals to remain vigilant for signs of infestation.

"If livestock producers suspect New World screwworm in their animals, they should contact my office immediately at 334-240-7253," said Alabama State Veterinarian Dr. Tony Frazier. "It is critical for producers to remain alert and closely monitor their herd’s health. Early detection and quick reporting will help prevent the introduction and spread of this pest in Alabama."

Warning signs of New World screwworm infestation include head shaking, decreased appetite, isolation from the herd, foul-smelling wounds and unexplained open lesions.

Officials said producers should closely monitor newborn animals, postpartum livestock and animals that have recently been handled, transported or undergone routine management procedures that may create wounds. The pest can infest a variety of wounds and openings on living animals, including castration sites, branding wounds, ear tag sites, insect bites, vaccination sites, umbilical areas and mucosal cavities.

After hatching, the larvae burrow into wounds and feed on living tissue using sharp mouth hooks, causing extensive damage.

Adult screwworm flies are about the size of a common housefly and can be identified by their orange eyes, metallic blue-green bodies and three dark stripes along their backs. Female flies can lay up to 3,000 eggs during their lifespans, making rapid detection and response critical to controlling infestations.

The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries also encouraged hunters, pet owners and anyone who works closely with animals to watch for signs of infestation and report suspected cases.

Anyone who suspects a New World screwworm infestation in livestock, wildlife or companion animals should immediately contact Dr. Frazier at (334) 240-7253.

Officials stressed that all meat products entering the food supply must pass rigorous inspections before and after harvest and remain safe to consume. They said the U.S. food supply remains safe and abundant and that consumers can continue to support Alabama farmers and ranchers by purchasing beef and other meat products.

Additional information about New World screwworm is available at https://agi.alabama.gov/nws. Cattle producers seeking information on prevention and response efforts can also visit USDA APHIS' Stop Screwworm website at www.screwworm.gov.