Flesh-eating parasite that infests humans and pets found just a few miles from US border

An adult New World screwworm which could cause devastation to US cattle if it spreads across the border from Mexico (Picture: AP)

Fears have been raised over the spread of a parasitic worm that could have a devastating impact on the food chain.

The New World screwworm has been found in Mexico just 30 miles from the US border. It’s a devastating parasite that can kill fully-grown cows in less than two weeks.

Its spread has spooked US officials, fearing the US’s food supply could be impacted if it crosses into the country.

The latest detection of the fly was in a six-month-old sheep in the Coahuil...