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New Mexico urges vigilance, still free of screwworm<\/p>\n
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM<\/a>) \u2014 New Mexico state animal, wildlife and human health officials urge vigilance among New Mexicans following the U.S. Department of Agriculture\u2019s June 3 confirmation of a New World screwworm case in Zavala County, Texas.<\/p>\n At this time, New World screwworm (NWS) has not been detected in New Mexico, New Mexico officials confirmed on Friday afternoon, June 5.<\/p>\n State officials emphasize that there is no cause for alarm but encourage residents, livestock producers, veterinarians, wildlife professionals, hunters, and pet owners to stay informed and report any suspicious cases.<\/p>\n \u201cWhile New World screwworm has not been detected in New Mexico, USDA\u2019s confirmation of the pest in South Texas serves as an important reminder for everyone to remain vigilant,\u201d said New Mexico Secretary of Agriculture Jeff Witte. \u201cWe encourage anyone who has recently traveled\u00a0or plans to travel\u00a0to the affected area with livestock, horses, pets, or other animals to closely monitor them and report any suspicious wounds or infestations. Early detection and reporting are essential to protecting New Mexico\u2019s agriculture, wildlife, and animal and human health.\u201d<\/p>\n Particular vigilance is encouraged for livestock producers, animal owners, hunters, outdoor recreationists, and others who may have recently traveled or have plans to travel to South Texas, especially areas near the confirmed detection. Animals returning from affected areas should be closely monitored for wounds that fail to heal or show signs of unusual maggot infestations.<\/p>\n NWS is a parasitic fly whose larvae feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals. Early detection and rapid reporting are essential to preventing its spread.<\/p>\n New Mexicans should be familiar with the signs of New World screwworm and review state-specific preparedness and response resources. For New Mexico-specific information, reporting guidance, and updates, you can click here<\/a>.<\/p>\n Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.<\/p>\n