Mexico has reported a 53 percent rise in flesh-eating screwworm cases, with 5,086 infections as of August 17, affecting cattle, horses, sheep, and dogs. Dozens of human cases have also been reported, mainly in Chiapas, and one case appeared in Maryland linked to travel in Central America, according to Al Jazeera.
The parasite, eradicated decades ago, re-emerged in 2023, causing $1.3bn in losses for Mexican cattle exports. US authorities warn that unchecked spread could threaten $100bn in livestock-related economic activity.
Mexico and the US are combating the outbreak with sterile fly programs and emergency veterinary drugs. Human risk in the US remains very low, officials say, but livestock protection is urgent, Al Jazeera reported.
