Texas reports first equine infection of New World screwworm on ranch horse

The flesh-eating parasite had been largely eradicated, but now authorities are racing to contain an outbreak

A horse in southern Texas has been infected with the New World screwworm, marking the first US equine infection as health authorities race to contain an outbreak of the flesh-eating parasite.

The pest was discovered on the hind limb of a working ranch horse in Presidio county, according to a statement on Thursday from US Equestrian Foundation.