Austin, Texas, February 3, 2026
Governor Greg Abbott of Texas has announced a statewide disaster declaration in response to the advancing threat of the New World Screwworm fly, a parasitic insect that poses significant risks to livestock and wildlife. The declaration enables the Texas New World Screwworm Response Team to mobilize state resources effectively for prevention and response. Additionally, a partnership with the USDA will establish a $750 million facility to produce sterile flies to control populations of this dangerous pest. Current measures are focused on protecting Texas’s agricultural industry from potential infestations.
Austin, Texas – Governor Abbott Issues Disaster Declaration Over Flesh-Eating Fly Threat
Austin, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott has declared a statewide disaster in response to the advancing threat of the New World Screwworm (NWS) fly, a parasitic insect known for infesting and damaging livestock and wildlife. This preemptive measure aims to protect Texas’s agricultural industry and natural resources from potential harm.
Immediate Response to NWS Threat
The NWS fly, which has been moving northward from Mexico toward the U.S. southern border, poses a significant risk to Texas’s livestock and wildlife. Governor Abbott’s disaster declaration enables the Texas New World Screwworm Response Team to fully utilize state resources for prevention and response efforts. This team is a collaborative effort between the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and the Texas Animal Health Commission.
Partnership with Federal Agencies
In addition to state efforts, Governor Abbott has partnered with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins to establish a $750 million Domestic Sterile New World Screwworm Production Facility in Edinburg, Texas. This facility is designed to produce sterile flies, a method historically used to control screwworm populations by disrupting their breeding cycle.
Background on the New World Screwworm Fly
The New World Screwworm fly is a parasitic insect whose larvae feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals, including livestock, wildlife, and pets. Infestations can lead to severe tissue damage and, if left untreated, can be fatal to the host animal. The fly was eradicated from the United States in the late 20th century through rigorous control measures, including the release of sterile flies to interrupt the breeding cycle. However, its recent spread from Mexico into the U.S. necessitates renewed vigilance and proactive measures to prevent re-infestation.
Governor Abbott’s Statement
Governor Abbott emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that the disaster declaration allows the Texas New World Screwworm Response Team to fully deploy state prevention and response resources. He highlighted the importance of acting swiftly to prevent the re-emergence of this destructive parasite and protect the state’s agricultural economy and wildlife populations.
Ongoing Monitoring and Preparedness
State officials continue to monitor the situation closely, deploying surveillance traps along the southern border to detect any potential detections of the NWS fly. While the fly has not been confirmed in Texas, the proactive measures aim to ensure a rapid response if the threat materializes. The collaboration between state and federal agencies underscores the commitment to safeguarding Texas’s agricultural industry and natural resources from the potential impact of the New World Screwworm fly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the New World Screwworm fly?
The New World Screwworm fly is a parasitic insect whose larvae feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals, including livestock, wildlife, and pets. Infestations can lead to severe tissue damage and, if left untreated, can be fatal to the host animal.
Why has Governor Abbott issued a disaster declaration?
Governor Abbott issued the disaster declaration to enable the Texas New World Screwworm Response Team to fully utilize state resources for prevention and response efforts, aiming to protect Texas’s livestock and wildlife from the advancing threat of the NWS fly.
What is the purpose of the $750 million facility in Edinburg, Texas?
The facility is designed to produce sterile flies, a method historically used to control screwworm populations by disrupting their breeding cycle, thereby preventing infestations in livestock and wildlife.
Has the New World Screwworm fly been detected in Texas?
As of now, the New World Screwworm fly has not been confirmed in Texas. However, its movement northward from Mexico toward the U.S. southern border has prompted proactive measures to prevent its introduction into the state.
What are the potential impacts of a New World Screwworm infestation?
An infestation can lead to severe tissue damage in livestock and wildlife, potentially resulting in death if left untreated. This poses a significant threat to the agricultural industry and natural resources in Texas.
Key Features of the New World Screwworm Fly Threat
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Parasitic Nature | Larvae feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals, causing severe tissue damage and potential death. |
| Geographical Spread | Advancing northward from Mexico toward the U.S. southern border, posing a threat to Texas’s livestock and wildlife. |
| Governor’s Response | Issued a disaster declaration to enable full deployment of state resources for prevention and response efforts. |
| Federal Collaboration | Partnered with the USDA to establish a $750 million facility in Edinburg, Texas, to produce sterile flies for population control. |
| Current Status | No confirmed cases in Texas; proactive measures are in place to prevent introduction and spread. |
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