Sunplaza

American scientists have issued an urgent warning: horrific parasites have entered the United States through the border with Mexico. These creatures eat animals from the inside.

The flesh-eating parasite, commonly referred to as the New World Screwworm, was eradicated in North America in the late 19th century. But it has returned as cattle from Panama were smuggled into the United States, the DailyMail reports.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) was warned of the parasite invasion last month after cattle were infected at the border. There is a possibility that the New World Screwworm could have already moved into the country, experts say.

Scientists note that the worm larvae are creamy white in color and settle on the edge of superficial wounds. When the eggs hatch, they usually enter the bloodstream through an open wound and not only infect livestock, but can also enter the human body.

Mexico’s chief veterinarian notified the United States of the discovery of the infestation in a cow in Chiapas state in southern Mexico during an inspection near the border with Guatemala. Since it is very difficult to detect worm infection, it is possible that infected cattle have entered the United States.

The USDA has asked cattle producers to monitor their livestock and pets to stop the spread of the worm and report any possible cases immediately.

“With the latest finding in Mexico, we will further intensify our work to protect American agriculture and restore the barrier in Central America,” said US Chief Veterinary Inspector Rosemary Sifford.

The United States, Mexico and Central America paid $800 million to completely eradicate the screwworm more than three decades ago, but the illegal cattle trade has revived.

The Wildlife Conservation Society’s regional director for Mesoamerica, Jeremy Radachowski, said that while two cases have been reported in southern Mexico, none have yet been recorded in the United States.

The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) warns that if the screwworm infection continues to spread, it “could cause catastrophic economic losses, devastate rural economies, and trigger a public health crisis.”

Scientists warn that if the parasite is not eradicated quickly, it could take decades to completely remove it.

After the infection, the Mexican authorities said they were taking decisive measures to prevent further spread, including the treatment of wounds on livestock, deworming and the use of special sprays used to kill worm larvae before they can turn into a full-fledged parasite.