Texas Ranch Horse Confirmed as First Equine Case in New World Screwworm Outbreak, Leading to Expanded Movement Restrictions
A working ranch horse in Presidio County, Texas, has been identified as the first equine case of New World screwworm in the current U.S. outbreak. Larvae were discovered in a wound on one of the horse's hind limbs. Following this detection, on September 9, the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) issued an order establishing an infested zone in parts of Presidio and Jeff Davis counties. This new order restricts the movement of warm-blooded animals, including horses, cattle, goats, dogs, and cats, out of the designated zone without prior authorization from the TAHC, a mandatory inspection, and any necessary treatment. This development marks a shift in the outbreak, as previous U.S. detections were primarily in cattle, goats, and one dog. As of September 9, there have been 49 confirmed cases in the U.S., with 48 in Texas and four still active, according to USDA data compiled by Texas Public Radio. While some earlier restriction zones in other Texas counties have been lifted, the new equine case has prompted...
