The Department of Agriculture confirmed Monday that five cases of screwworm have now been detected in the United States, with four being detected in Texas and one in New Mexico.

The first two were reported last week in Texas in calves located a few miles apart. The other three cases were reported Monday, with two in Texas and one that was initially reported in Texas but was later reclassified as the first in New Mexico.

Officials said Monday's cases were found in a dog, a goat and a cow. USDA said the New Mexico case was the dog and the veterinarian who reported it had been located in Texas, causing the confusion. 

“This situation is evolving, and we expect new information to emerge as our investigation continues," USDA Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Dudley Hoskins said in a statement. "USDA is committed to sharing what we learn quickly, accurately, and transparently so animal owners and local communities have the information they need to stay vigilant.

“We are working closely with our partners in New Mexico, Texas, and across the region to ensure we identify, contain, and respond to any potential cases as swiftly as possible," he added.

The New World screwworm is a flesh-eating, parasitic fly, whose maggots burrow into the flesh of living animals, which threatens the health of pets, wildlife and livestock. In some cases, birds and humans can be infected, but no human cases have been reported. 

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.