The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has activated a Level 3 emergency response to coordinate efforts containing a New World screwworm outbreak threatening livestock and wildlife across the United States.
The CDC’s lowest-tier emergency declaration signals coordinated federal action with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and state authorities to prevent further spread. The parasite poses risks primarily to animals, though federal officials continue assessing public health implications.
What is New World Screwworm
New World screwworm develops when flies lay eggs in open wounds or body openings of livestock, pets, and wildlife, allowing larvae to feed on living tissue. The parasite cannot spread directly between animals, from animals to humans, or between people, according to the CDC.
No human cases have been reported in the United States, and federal officials maintain the risk to the public remains low. Health officials stressed the condition is not contagious and infections occur only through exposure to screwworm flies in affected areas.
Federal Response and Coordination
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins described the CDC activation as part of a broader whole-of-government strategy. “The CDC is just one more step in the right direction that allows us to deploy more resources at the federal level,” Rollins said Thursday.
An interagency working group led by the USDA, CDC, and Department of the Interior is coordinating response efforts through a One Health initiative recognizing connections between human, animal, and environmental health. The USDA tracks confirmed animal infestations through a public dashboard as officials monitor the outbreak’s spread.
Historical Context and Prevention
The United States successfully eradicated New World screwworm decades ago, and federal officials expressed confidence the parasite can be eliminated again. The Trump administration began preparing for the threat more than a year ago, launching an aggressive 2025 USDA strategy to prevent reestablishment.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott and state agriculture officials have partnered with federal counterparts, launching inspector training programs and alert systems through Texas A&M AgriLife Extension.
Economic and Health Implications
Ranchers in South Texas, where cattle production represents a multi-billion-dollar industry, expressed cautious optimism about the federal response. “This could hit us hard if it spreads, but we’re seeing the feds moving fast,” one Texas cattle producer told local affiliates.
Economic analyses indicate unchecked spread could result in significant livestock losses, treatment costs, and potential trade restrictions from international partners including Canada. The parasite’s larvae cause severe tissue damage in open wounds, making veterinary and medical vigilance essential.
The FDA issued emergency use authorizations for companion animal treatments to support pet owners. The USDA emphasized the outbreak is not a food safety concern and the U.S. food supply remains safe.
This story has been updated. CNN’s Health and Agriculture teams contributed to this report.
