Screwworm Spread Raises Concerns in Texas Livestock Industry

Efforts to control the spread of the New World screwworm intensify as state and federal officials confirm new cases. The screwworm is not a virus but a parasitic fly, with larvae that consume living tissue, mainly affecting animals such as livestock. Recent cases include a goat in Gillespie County, Texas, a calf in La Salle County, Texas, and a dog in Lea County, New Mexico.

Authorities are taking strong measures to prevent further spread. Dr. Lewis R. “Bud” Dinges, Executive Director of the Texas Animal Health Commission, stated that response teams are actively monitoring affected areas. Measures include animal surveillance, setting up checkpoints, coordinating with landowners for fly release sites, and releasing sterile flies both on the ground and from the air. Public education efforts are also underway to inform owners about prevention strategies.

The appearance of new cases heightens concerns within the Texas cattle and beef sector, which already faces high prices and limited supply. At County Line Barbecue, brisket remains popular. However, owner Skeeter Miller reports that rising costs have required menu adjustments, such as creating platter options to offer a variety of tastes.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture notes that brisket prices have climbed significantly. In 2021, prices were between $2.40 and $3.00 per pound. By 2025, this increased to $5.75 to $7.00 per pound. At a Terry Black’s Barbecue restaurant in Lockhart, Texas, brisket remains a featured item despite rising costs.

Emily Williams Knight, president and CEO of the Texas Restaurant Association, emphasized the prolonged nature of beef herd replenishment compared to past supply crises involving chicken and eggs. Rising demand, coupled with supply challenges, continues to pressure restaurants in Texas, where barbecue is culturally significant.

The confirmed screwworm cases add uncertainty to an industry already strained by other challenges. Long-time operators, such as Miller, view this as another hurdle. He recalls facing other crises like mad cow disease and bird flu, emphasizing customer comfort and maintaining quality amid these challenges.

During the most recent briefing, officials appealed to ranchers and livestock owners to report potential screwworm cases promptly. Early detection is crucial for resource allocation, including the limited availability of sterile flies necessary to control the population.