First Human Case of New World Screwworm Confirmed in United States
Introduction
The U.S. has confirmed its first human case of New World screwworm, a flesh-eating parasite that typically affects cattle in South America. The affected person had recently traveled from El Salvador, where the parasite is more common. However, in recent years, screwworm has spread north and has now made its way to the United States.
What is New World Screwworm?
New World screwworm is a parasitic fly that lays its eggs in open wounds, causing severe tissue damage and potential death. The larvae feed on the host's flesh, making it crucial to remove the parasites as soon as possible. This parasite is not new to the Americas, and in the past, it has caused significant damage to livestock industries.
The Impact
The confirmation of a human case of New World screwworm in the U.S. is concerning. The parasite can also affect other animals, including pets and wildlife, and can easily spread to other states if not contained. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has implemented measures to prevent the parasite from spreading, including setting up quarantine zones and conducting air and ground surveillance. It is crucial to remain vigilant and take precautions when traveling to or from areas where New World screwworm is known to be present.
About the Organizations Mentioned
U.S. Department of Agriculture
The **U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)** is a major federal executive department established in 1862 by President Abraham Lincoln, originally to support farmers through research and seed distribution, earning the nickname "The People’s Department"[1][2][7]. Today, it functions as a comprehensive agency overseeing food, agriculture, natural resources, rural development, and nutrition across the United States and globally. The USDA’s mission is to foster innovation and promote agricultural production to nourish Americans and feed the world while conserving natural resources through science-based policies. It operates with a budget of approximately $467 billion for fiscal year 2024 and employs around 100,000 people across 4,500 locations, making it one of the largest federal departments[1][5]. Organizationally, USDA is divided into 29 agencies grouped into eight mission areas: Farm Production and Conservation, Food Safety, Nutrition and Consumer Services, Marketing and Regulatory Programs, Natural Resources and Environment, Research, Education and Economics, Rural Development, and Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs. Each area is led by Senate-confirmed officials responsible for policy and program implementation[1]. Key achievements include pioneering agricultural research, establishing the Cooperative Extension Service (1914) to disseminate farming knowledge, and administering the Food Stamp Program (now Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, SNAP) which is the largest nutrition assistance program in the U.S., forming about 71% of USDA’s budget[1][4]. The USDA also manages the United States Forest Service, overseeing roughly 25% of federal lands, highlighting its critical role in conservation[4]. The department supports farmers with financial aid and subsidies, enforces food safety regulations to protect consumers, promotes rural economic development through infrastructure and home loan programs, and pursues sustainability and environmental stewardship. Its influence extends internationally by promoting agricultural trade and addressing global hunger[2][3][5]. Currently led by Secretary Brooke Rollins since February 2025, USDA continues to adapt by integrating innovation and technolog
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