Quick Read
- Governor Polis launched a response plan to prevent New World Screwworm spread.
- The parasite feeds on living tissue and threatens livestock health.
- State authorities are coordinating with the USDA to monitor livestock movement.
- There is no risk to human food safety from this parasite.
Colorado Governor Jared Polis announced an emergency response plan on June 8, 2026, aimed at shielding the state’s cattle industry from the New World Screwworm (NWS). The move follows reports of the parasite reaching South Texas last week, raising significant concerns for livestock health and interstate trade security.
The NWS, a parasitic fly larva that consumes living tissue, poses a severe threat to livestock. According to the Colorado State Veterinarian’s Office, the state is coordinating directly with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to monitor the situation. The preparedness plan focuses on strict oversight of livestock movement, with the possibility of emergency orders requiring health certifications for animals arriving from infested zones.
“Colorado is taking action to ensure readiness for the potential arrival of New World Screwworm in our state,” Governor Polis stated. The Department of Agriculture is currently distributing educational materials to ranchers and veterinarians to assist in early symptom detection. Officials emphasized that while the parasite is highly destructive to animal tissue, it does not pose a food safety risk, and the U.S. food supply remains secure.