safety
Flesh-eating screwworm outbreak escalates in West Texas as confirmed cases reach 31
By Amber Kite at FOX 9 KMSP (FOX)
· July 2, 2026
· 1 min read
Federal and state agricultural officials have confirmed that the number of New World screwworm cases in the United States has reached 31, prompting Texas authorities to maintain strict emergency quarantine orders to combat the flesh-eating parasite's ongoing expansion in West Texas.
Why this matters in The Minneapolis
While the flesh-eating screwworm outbreak is currently confined to West Texas, Minneapolis residents who travel to or have connections in the affected area should be aware of the situation. The parasite's presence in the US could have implications for Minnesota's livestock industry, particularly if the outbreak spreads to other states. Local farmers and animal owners should take note of the emergency quarantine orders in Texas and be prepared to take preventative measures if the screwworm infestation were to reach the Midwest. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture may need to increase surveillance and monitoring of livestock imports from affected areas to prevent the parasite's introduction to the state. Minneapolis residents who participate in livestock shows or competitions in Texas should also exercise caution and follow strict biosecurity protocols to minimize the risk of transmission.
About this story
Original reporting by FOX 9 KMSP (FOX) . The Minneapolis surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit FOX 9 KMSP (FOX) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: safety ·
Published: July 2, 2026 ·
Source: FOX 9 KMSP (FOX) ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Federal and state agricultural officials have confirmed that the number of New World screwworm cases in the United States has reached 31, prompting Texas authorities to maintain strict emergency quarantine orders to combat the flesh-eating parasite's ongoing expansion in West Texas.
When was this published? This article was first published on July 2, 2026 by FOX 9 KMSP (FOX) and curated for The Minneapolis readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Amber Kite at FOX 9 KMSP (FOX). To learn more about how The Minneapolis selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from The Minneapolis, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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