Screwworm Back in U.S. and How Scientists Are Stopping It | Science News

The New World screwworm, a flesh-eating parasite that devastated livestock in the 50s, is making a dangerous comeback in Texas and New Mexico. Scientists at UC San Diego have developed a smart tracking dashboard that combines real-time data, weather patterns, and news to predict where the pest might strike next. This invasive fly lays eggs in open wounds, with larvae feeding on living tissue — risking animals, pets, and even humans. The U.S. successfully eradicated it before using sterilized male flies to crash populations; now, scientists are reviving that strategy alongside pesticides and quarantines. This crisis underscores the power of science and public health working together — using tech to stay one step ahead and protect communities from biological threats. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Sources:https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/09/260914102439.htm More coverage & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/f7ec7fd85933f9f8 Report issues to [email protected].