By Pat Trevino | June 12, 2026
Cuero, Texas — As questions circulate among DeWitt County residents, state and federal officials continue monitoring the New World Screwworm, a parasitic fly larva capable of causing severe wounds in livestock, wildlife, pets, and—rarely—humans.
The screwworm is the larval stage of a fly that lays eggs in open wounds. Unlike common maggots that feed on dead tissue, screwworm larvae consume living flesh, making infestations dangerous and potentially fatal if untreated. The United States eradicated the pest decades ago through a sterile‑fly release program that remains active along the Panama–Colombia border.
Recent Confirmed Cases
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the most recent U.S. detections occurred in early June in Zavala County, La Salle County, and Andrews County, Texas, along with a confirmed case in Lea County, New Mexico. These cases involve cattle and dogs, and investigations are ongoing in affected areas.
Residents can view the official, continuously updated case dashboard here:
🔗 USDA Screwworm Current Status Dashboard
https://direct.aphis.usda.gov/animals/animal-health/livestock-and-poultry-disease/current-status
Mexico has also reported multiple cases in northern states, prompting expanded sterile‑fly releases and increased surveillance on both sides of the border.
Is the Food Supply at Risk?
Federal agencies emphasize that screwworm does not contaminate meat, milk, or processed food products. The parasite affects live animals, not packaged or prepared food.
The primary concern is economic—loss of livestock, treatment costs, and increased monitoring—not food safety.
Local Concerns in DeWitt County
Cuero Online News has received several messages from residents asking whether screwworm has reached DeWitt County. As of today, there are no confirmed cases in this county, and no alerts have been issued by the Texas Animal Health Commission or USDA.
For official Texas updates:
🔗 Texas Animal Health Commission – Screwworm Information
https://www.tahc.texas.gov
What Residents Should Watch For
Officials urge the public to report any suspicious wounds or maggot activity in animals to:
- Local veterinarians
- Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC)
https://www.tahc.texas.gov - USDA APHIS – Report Suspected Cases
https://www.aphis.usda.gov
Early reporting is critical to preventing spread.
Cuero Online News Will Continue Monitoring
Cuero Online News will continue tracking official updates and will inform residents if any confirmed information affects DeWitt County.