Governor Greg Abbott has moved Texas into a Level II emergency operations mode after confirming the presence of the New World screwworm, a parasitic fly that can devastate cattle, deer and pets. The activation follows an expanded disaster declaration and comes as the pest re‑emerges in Mexico and Central America, prompting a coordinated state‑federal effort.

State Emergency Operations Center goes live at Level II

According to the Texas Governor’s office , the State Emergency Operations Center was switched to an "Escalated Response" level, mobilizing all relevant agencies—including the Texas Animal Health Commission, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, and emergency management partners. Daily briefings will allocate resources such as Texas Task Force personnel, veterinary teams and wildlife biologists to monitor and contain any infestations.

Historical eradication in 1966 versus today’s sterile‑fly program

The New World screwworm, Cochliomyia hominivorax, was eliminated from the United States in 1966 using the sterile insect technique (SIT), which released sterilized male flies to suppress reproduction. The current effort, overseen by the USDA in partnership with Panama, requires a far larger production of sterile flies, reflecting the pest’s renewed northward pressure.

Economic stakes: 13 million head of cattle at risk

Texas leads the nation with over 13 million cattle, a sector valued at billions of dollars. A widespread screwworm outbreak could mirror the 2016 Florida incident, which cost roughly $50 million and threatened trade flows. Ranchers are urged to inspect animals twice daily, treat wounds with approved insecticides, and limit unnecessary livestock movement.

Who to call: Reporting lines for livestock and wildlife

Officials ask that suspected livestock cases be reported to the Texas Animal Health Commission at 1‑800‑550‑8242, while wildlife sightings should go to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department at 512‑389‑4505. a dedicated website and hotline now provide updates, and residents are encouraged to report any metallic blue‑green blowflies or unexplained animal wounds .

Open question: Will sterile‑fly production meet the scale needed?

While the USDA‑Panama partnership promises large‑scale sterile‑fly releases, the exact capacity and timeline remain unclear.. The source does not specify how many sterile males will be deployed or when the first releases will occur, leaving a critical gap in the containment strategy.