06/09/2026
The New World screwworm is no longer a distant concern.
During a press conference today in Kerrville, Texas officials confirmed that a goat in Gillespie County has been diagnosed with screwworm. Gillespie County is less than 90 miles from San Antonio.
Unlike many parasites, screwworm larvae feed on living tissue. Animals with open wounds can quickly develop severe infestations that cause extensive injury, suffering, and death if left untreated.
For San Antonio, the implications extend far beyond livestock.
The city continues to struggle with a severe stray animal overpopulation crisis. Thousands of free-roaming dogs and cats live on our streets, vacant lots, and greenbelts. Many suffer from untreated injuries, skin conditions, embedded collars, and other wounds that could attract screwworm flies if the pest reaches Bexar County.
Last month, City of San Antonio Animal Care Services Director Jon Gary publicly acknowledged that ACS does not pick up most stray dogs and cats. That policy may take on new significance if screwworm spreads deeper into Texas.
A city already overwhelmed by a large stray animal overpopulation could face a new animal welfare challenge involving large numbers of wounded dogs and cats living beyond the reach of routine veterinary care.
Is the City of San Antonio - Municipal Government and sametrohealth prepared if that crisis collides with a livestock and wildlife parasite that has now been confirmed in the Hill Country?
