U.S. confirms two more New World screwworm cases in animals

LOS ANGELES, June 8 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) confirmed two additional cases of New World screwworm in animals on Monday, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the U.S. state of Texas to four since last week.

According to the department, the cases were identified in a calf in La Salle County and a dog in Andrews County.

"Over the past week, USDA has identified and expeditiously confronted four confirmed detections of New World screwworm. While we address these instances that require immediate attention, and continue to sample suspected cases, we are simultaneously working to eradicate the pest entirely," said Dudley Hoskins, USDA undersecretary for marketing and regulatory programs.

New World screwworm is a serious pest that threatens livestock, pets, wildlife, and, in rare cases, people. The larvae burrow into the living tissue of animals, causing severe wounds, animal suffering, and significant economic losses, according to the USDA.