Two New Screwworm Cases Confirmed in Las Cruces

New Mexico animal health officials confirmed two cases of New World screwworm in Doña Ana County on Tuesday. The detections require local livestock owners to monitor their animals more closely and follow specific movement rules within a designated infested zone.

One case was found in a sheep on the New Mexico State University campus in Las Cruces. The second case involved a cow at an off-campus location. State and federal agencies are now expanding surveillance and fly-trapping efforts around these sites to determine if the pest has spread to other animals. Fly traps have been installed on the NMSU campus as part of this operation.

Dr. Samantha Holeck, the state veterinarian with the New Mexico Livestock Board, stated that early detection is critical to containing the fly and protecting animal health. She urged the campus community to learn the warning signs and report any suspicious wounds or infestations immediately.

Officials established an infested zone extending at least 12.4 miles around the affected locations. Residents in Doña Ana County should check the current map on ScrewwormNM.org to see if their property falls within this boundary. Properties inside the zone face specific requirements, including inspection within five days of moving in or out. Owners must also meet identification standards and provide treatment when required. They may need to contact the state Livestock Board regarding animal movement.

Livestock owners should look for wounds that fail to heal or worsen, maggots in wounds or body openings, foul-smelling discharge, and unusual irritation or pain around injuries. If these signs appear, owners should avoid handling or moving the animal and contact the board immediately. People who suspect they have an infestation should seek medical attention.

This confirmation comes about five days after state and federal agriculture officials responded to a fifth New World screwworm case in New Mexico. Officials continue to monitor the situation and update the infested zone map as new data emerges.