The United States has confirmed 12 cases of the New World screwworm. Eleven cases were reported in Texas, and the other was in New Mexico.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, state and federal officials continue efforts to contain the flesh-eating parasite.

The latest Texas case was identified in a sheep in Sutton County, which is located about 135 miles northwest of San Antonio. The detection adds to growing concerns that the parasite is spreading beyond South Texas and into other parts of the state. The case confirmation in New Mexico has also been concerning to health officials.

Pennsylvania has already issued a quarantine order aimed at protecting the state’s livestock industry, pets, wildlife, and broader agricultural economy from a destructive pest that can cause severe and sometimes deadly damage to living animals.

Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding said that “Pennsylvania has no confirmed cases of New World Screwworm, but this destructive pest poses a serious threat to our livestock industry, companion animals, wildlife, and agricultural economy.” He added: “Taking proactive steps now to strengthen biosecurity and limit unnecessary animal movements from affected areas will help protect our farms and communities.”

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture has also urged farmers and pet owners to take safety precautions. Some of these restrictions include restricting the movement of susceptible domestic animals entering the state from affected areas, and requiring veterinary inspections, animal health certification, and preventive measures aimed at reducing the risk of the pest entering Pennsylvania through transported animals, according to a report by WGAL8, a local NBC News affiliate. 

The parasite lays its eggs in the open wounds or other body openings of animals. After the eggs hatch, the larvae burrow into tissue, creating painful wounds that can become severe or even fatal if left untreated.  The screwworm has been called a flesh-eating parasite due to the wounds it creates in animals.

According to a report by Texas Public Radio, the parasite currently poses a potentially significant threat to Texas livestock producers and wildlife populations. Canada has already taken measures to protect its animals and meat supply from the horrific parasite.

Canada BANS Imports Of US Livestock Over Flesh-Eating Parasite Concerns

State and federal officials have responded with surveillance, testing, and the release of millions of sterile male screwworm flies. Because female screwworm flies generally mate only once, breeding with a sterile male prevents reproduction and helps suppress the population.

Screwworm was previously eradicated from the United States in the 1960s before reappearing in Texas this month after spreading north through Mexico from Central America.