New Mexico state officials are providing an update on the New World screwworm situation following confirmation of the state's first case in a dog in Lea County.
At this time, New Mexico has one confirmed case of New World screwworm (NWS), with no additional detections.
Following confirmation on June 7, state animal health officials established a 12-mile infested zone around the affected location to support surveillance, treatment, and safe animal movement. Animals within the zone must be inspected and, if necessary, treated prior to movement.
The New Mexico Livestock Board issued an Emergency Animal Health Declaration on June 9, activating emergency response protocols and coordination across state and federal partners.
State officials continue to work with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, veterinarians, and local partners to expand fly trapping, conduct field investigations, and monitor for additional cases. Response efforts focus on aggressive surveillance, early detection, and rapid reporting to prevent further spread.
There is no effect on the food supply. New World screwworm does not affect meat, and the commercial food system remains safe.
New World screwworm is a parasitic fly whose larvae feed on living tissue, causing myiasis. While sometimes broadly described as a biological agent of disease, it does not transmit infectious viruses or bacteria between animals or humans. The larvae directly cause tissue damage at the site of infestation.
Because of this biology, there is no traditional vaccine for long-term immunity. Prevention and treatment rely on prompt wound care, approved parasiticides and topical treatments, and, when necessary, EPA-registered or emergency-use products to prevent or eliminate infestation.
Animal owners are encouraged to closely monitor livestock and pets for non-healing wounds, unusual irritation, or other signs of infestation, and to report concerns immediately to the New Mexico Livestock Board.
Additional information and updates are available at ScrewwormNM.org.
