LOTT, Texas (KWTX) - Ranchers are keeping a closer eye on their animals as the New World Screwworm outbreak inches closer to Texas.

It’s a flesh-eating parasite that mainly feeds on animals. Although, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed the country’s first human case Monday.

Fourth generation cattle producer and veterinarian, Jared Ranly said with the beef industry’s demand being at an all-time high and low supply, infected cattle would rock the industry. If the screwworm infects herds of cattle across the country, Ranly said prices would skyrocket.

“We have the highest demand ever in history for our beef product, the prices are reflecting that. A lot of that has to do with the supply, the increase in demand. Also right now, we’re unable to import from Mexico d

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