Only 3 energetic screw trojan horse circumstances stay in Northern Mexico, 1 is 240 miles from Texas

Introduction

In recent weeks, a concerning outbreak of screw trojan horse infections has emerged in northern Mexico, drawing attention from public health officials and neighboring states. As of February 2026, only three active cases remain in the region, with one case located just 240 miles from the Texas border. This development has raised alarms about the potential for cross-border transmission and the need for coordinated surveillance efforts.

Key Points

Background

The screw trojan horse is a parasitic infection caused by larvae of certain fly species, most notably Cochliomyia hominivorax. The larvae infest open wounds in warm-blooded animals, including humans, feeding on living tissue. Historically, this disease has posed significant challenges in livestock industries and public health, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions.

In December 2025, health authorities in Tamaulipas, a northern Mexican state bordering Texas, reported 23 initial cases. The outbreak prompted immediate containment measures, including quarantine protocols and public awareness campaigns. Over the following weeks, intensive efforts by local and federal health agencies led to a dramatic reduction in active cases.

Analysis

The persistence of 3 active cases highlights the difficulty of completely eradicating the screw trojan horse once it becomes established in a region. The proximity of one case to the Texas border—just 240 miles—underscores the importance of cross-border cooperation in disease surveillance and response. Factors contributing to the outbreak may include:

• Climate conditions: Warm, humid weather favors the survival and reproduction of the parasitic flies.
• Animal movement: Livestock and stray animals can carry the larvae across regions.
• Delayed detection: Early symptoms can be subtle, allowing the infection to spread before intervention.

Health officials are now focusing on targeted surveillance and rapid response to prevent further spread, especially near the US-Mexico border.

Practical Advice

For residents and travelers in affected areas, the following precautions are recommended:

Personal Protection

• Keep wounds clean and covered, especially when outdoors.
• Use insect repellent to reduce exposure to flies.
• Regularly inspect pets and livestock for signs of infection.

Community Awareness

• Report any suspected cases to local health authorities immediately.
• Participate in community education programs about the screw trojan horse.
• Support local vector control initiatives, such as fly trapping and habitat reduction.

Cross-Border Coordination

• Stay informed about official health advisories from both US and Mexican authorities.
• Cooperate with border health checkpoints and reporting requirements.

FAQ

Conclusion

The reduction of screw trojan horse cases in northern Mexico to just three active infections is a testament to the effectiveness of rapid public health intervention. However, the presence of a case near the Texas border serves as a reminder that vigilance and cooperation are essential to prevent further spread. Continued surveillance, public awareness, and cross-border collaboration will be key to keeping this outbreak under control and protecting both human and animal health in the region.