USDA agencies work together to eradicate an old foe: the screwworm

Early in October 2016, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) was faced once again with New World screwworm, which had been eradicated from the United States more than three decades ago. Infestation of this flesh-eating parasite was confirmed in deer from the National Key Deer Refuge in the Florida Keys, spurring quick action from USDA agencies and other federal, state and local organizations. By March 2017, the screwworm had been successfully eradicated from Florida. USDA scientists continue screwworm eradication efforts with national and international partners to keep the U.S. and other countries free of the flesh-eating pest. Read more…