Texas agriculture officials have confirmed two cases of New World screwworm in cattle in South Texas, marking the first detection of the flesh-eating parasite in the state in decades. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has launched containment efforts to prevent the spread of the pest, which can cause significant damage to livestock.

USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack stated that the nation's food supply is not at risk despite the confirmed cases. The department is working with state officials to implement control measures and monitor the situation closely.

The New World screwworm, scientifically known as Cochliomyia hominivorax, is a parasitic fly whose larvae feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals. The pest was previously eradicated from the United States through a decades-long control program that concluded in the 1960s, making these recent cases particularly concerning for agricultural officials.

Local ranchers have expressed concerns about the potential impact on their operations and whether federal agencies can effectively contain the outbreak. The screwworm's ability to spread rapidly among livestock populations has historically caused significant economic losses in affected regions.

The USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is coordinating the response effort, which includes surveillance activities and treatment protocols for affected areas. Officials are also investigating the source of the infestation and implementing measures to prevent further spread.

Texas agriculture authorities are working with federal partners to establish quarantine zones and conduct additional testing in surrounding areas to determine the full extent of the outbreak.