Missouri agriculture leaders and federal officials have dispelled unfounded media reports alleging the detection of the New World screwworm in the state, calling the claims irresponsible and unsubstantiated.
Recent media coverage has sparked alarm among livestock producers by suggesting that New World screwworm—an aggressive parasitic insect known for attacking warm-blooded animals—had been identified in Missouri. However, state and federal agencies, along with the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association, have confirmed that no such detection has occurred.
“Careless reporting based on unfounded rumors has resulted in unnecessary alarm within our industry,” said the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association in a statement issued in response to widespread concern. “We have received numerous calls over media reports alleging the New World Screwworm was detected in Missouri.”
The Missouri Department of Agriculture also issued a firm rebuttal to the claims:
“Unfounded rumors are circulating regarding New World Screwworm in Missouri. To date, the Missouri Department of Agriculture and United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has received no notification of New World Screwworm detection in Missouri,” the agency stated. “Missouri Department of Agriculture works closely with USDA on animal health issues. Any outlets publishing articles containing false or unfounded information are asked to remove the erroneous information immediately.”
A USDA spokesperson echoed these assurances, emphasizing that no cases of the screwworm have been identified anywhere in the U.S.
“Reports that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has confirmed the detection of New World Screwworm in the United States are not true,” the USDA clarified. “USDA is working with international partners to prevent NWS incursion into the United States.”
May 11, 2025 the USDA suspended imports of live cattle, horses, and bison through southern border ports to minimize the risk of introducing the pest.
“Should USDA detect NWS in the United States, we will rapidly respond in coordination with state partners to eliminate it,” the agency added. “We will also share information with all stakeholders.”
The New World screwworm is a flesh-eating parasite once eradicated from the U.S. through extensive efforts. Its presence poses a severe threat to livestock, wildlife, and even human health. While it remains a concern in some parts of Latin America, there have been no recent detections in the United States.
Producers and the public are encouraged to rely on official sources, such as the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service website, for the most accurate and timely information regarding animal health concerns
