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The flesh-eating pest that once cost ranchers millions is back
By Seth Millstein for Sentient via Stacker at WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate)
· June 21, 2026
· 1 min read
It’s back: For the first time since 1982, the New World screwworm has been found in U.S. cattle. The flesh-eating parasitic fly, which was eradicated from American cattle herds almost 50 years ago, has been detected in three cows, one dog and a goat, prompting Canada to restrict cattle imports fr...
Key takeaway The flesh-eating parasitic fly, which was eradicated from American cattle herds almost 50 years ago, has been detected in three cows, one dog and a goat, prompting Canada to restrict cattle imports fr...
Why this matters in The Nashville
The return of the New World screwworm to US cattle herds has significant implications for Nashville 's agricultural community. As a major hub for the livestock industry in Tennessee, Nashville's farmers and ranchers are likely to feel the effects of the screwworm's resurgence. With beef prices already at a record high, a widespread outbreak could lead to further price increases, impacting local consumers and businesses that rely on the industry. The city's agricultural sector is also a key contributor to the local economy, and a decline in cattle production could have far-reaching consequences for Nashville's economic growth. Furthermore, the nearby rural areas in Davidson County, where many farms and ranches are located, may be particularly vulnerable to the screwworm's spread, making it essential for local authorities to closely monitor the situation and take proactive measures to prevent the parasite's spread.
About this story
Original reporting by WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) . The Nashville surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 21, 2026 ·
Source: WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? It’s back: For the first time since 1982, the New World screwworm has been found in U.S. cattle. The flesh-eating parasitic fly, which was eradicated from American cattle herds almost 50 years ago, has been detected in three cows, one dog and a goat, prompting Canada to restrict cattle imports fr...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 21, 2026 by WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) and curated for The Nashville readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Seth Millstein for Sentient via Stacker at WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate). To learn more about how The Nashville selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Nashville, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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