新世界螺旋蠅蛆重現德州

曾於六十年前被美國成功消滅的新世界螺旋蠅蛆（New World Screwworm），近日再次在德州發現病例，引起農業界高度警戒。

這種寄生蠅會將蟲卵產在動物傷口上，幼蟲孵化後鑽入活體組織，以活肉為食，嚴重時可導致牲畜死亡。牛、馬、羊、鹿、寵物甚至人類都可能受到感染。

德州政府已啟動緊急防疫措施，包括疫情監測、區域管制及投放不育雄蠅控制蟲害擴散。

德州是全美最大的牛隻生產州，一旦疫情蔓延，不僅影響農牧業生產，也可能造成數十億美元經濟損失。

專家提醒，若發現動物傷口久未癒合、出現異味或蛆蟲，應立即尋求獸醫協助，以防感染擴大。

New World Screwworm Reappears in Texas

The New World Screwworm (NWS), a destructive parasite eradicated from the United States more than 60 years ago, has recently been detected again in Texas, raising serious concerns among livestock producers and animal health officials.

Unlike ordinary flies, the female screwworm lays eggs in open wounds of living animals. After hatching, the larvae burrow into healthy tissue and feed on living flesh, causing severe infections that can lead to death if left untreated. Cattle, horses, sheep, wildlife, pets, and even humans can be affected.

Texas authorities have launched emergency response measures, including increased surveillance, movement controls, and the release of sterile flies to prevent the parasite from spreading.

As the nation’s leading cattle-producing state, Texas faces significant economic risks if the outbreak expands. Agricultural experts warn that widespread infestations could result in major losses for the livestock industry.

Animal owners are urged to monitor wounds carefully and seek veterinary assistance immediately if signs of infection or larvae are observed.