New Mexico’s confirmed case remains tied to Lea County; no western New Mexico cases reported
CIBOLA COUNTY, N.M. — State and federal officials are continuing to monitor New World screwworm after confirmed cases in the United States rose to 12 as of June 16.
New Mexico’s confirmed case remains tied to Lea County, where a dog in Eunice tested positive after the case was first reported through a veterinarian in Andrews County, Texas. State officials said no additional New Mexico cases had been found during initial follow-up surveillance.
New World screwworm is a parasitic fly whose larvae feed on the living tissue of warmblooded animals. It can affect livestock, pets, wildlife and, in rare cases, people. Officials say the pest can be deadly if left untreated, but infestations can be treated when found early.
Dr. Samantha Holeck, New Mexico’s state veterinarian, said during a state briefing that screwworm is not contagious like many animal diseases. It does not spread directly from animal to animal or from animals to people. Instead, the fly lays eggs on open wounds or vulnerable tissue.
Holeck also said the case does not create a food safety concern.
“This will not impact the safety of our food in any way,” Holeck said.
New Mexico Secretary of Agriculture Jeff Witte said the state moved quickly after learning of the Lea County case. The New Mexico Livestock Board, NMSU Cooperative Extension Service and other partners were sent to the area to inspect the property and determine whether the infestation had spread.
Officials are still investigating how the dog became infested. Witte said the dog was believed to be a home dog, not an animal with a known travel history.
For ranchers and animal owners in Cibola County and western New Mexico, officials say the main message is early detection. Owners should regularly check cattle, horses, dogs and other animals for wounds that are not healing, maggots, egg masses, signs of discomfort, or lesions around the ears, nose, genitals or umbilical area.
Anyone who suspects screwworm should contact a veterinarian, the New Mexico Livestock Board, a local NMSU county extension agent or USDA animal health officials.
“The sooner we can determine the presence of screwworm, the faster we can stop it,” Witte said.
If more cases are found, officials could increase surveillance, conduct fly trapping, use sterile fly releases, or establish an infested zone with movement restrictions and additional livestock inspections.
Officials said approved treatments are available, and the state can request additional supplies through federal partners if needed.
Witte said officials do not currently expect the outbreak to disrupt the beef supply, especially if cases are found and treated early. However, the outbreak has already prompted some animal movement and trade restrictions outside New Mexico.
State officials continue to urge vigilance, not panic. New Mexicans can find updates and reporting guidance at ScrewwormNM.org and national information at Screwworm.gov.