Three additional cases of New World screwworm have been confirmed in the United States, including one outside the main cluster in Texas.

This brings the total number of identified cases to five, affecting cattle, goats, and a dog in Texas and New Mexico.

The parasite, caused by fly larvae that feed on living flesh, poses a serious threat to livestock, wildlife, pets, and occasionally humans.

The USDA has historically controlled screwworm through a sterile fly program, but officials say containment is becoming more difficult, the AP has reported.

Authorities are now investigating the New Mexico case and expanding inspections to prevent further spread.