# Flesh-eating screwworm parasite confirmed in US wildlife, officials say

US officials confirmed that New World screwworm, a flesh-eating parasite that kills livestock and can infect humans, has been found in American wildlife. The species had been eradicated from the country for decades, and its return threatens the cattle industry and raises alerts across border and agricultural agencies.

**Importance:** 4/5

## Sources

### World
- [The Guardian World](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/oct/21/new-world-screwworm-texas) — Wed, 21 Oct 2026 23:36:31 GMT