State and federal officials are increasing surveillance and fly-trapping around affected locations to determine whether the parasitic pest has spread to additional animals.
By Levi Gwaltney for Las Cruces Digest
N.M. Department of Agriculture
Photos/Images: Courtesy
PIÑON, N.M. — New Mexico animal health officials have confirmed a case of New World screwworm in a beef cow in Otero County, prompting expanded surveillance and animal movement restrictions as the Columbus livestock crossing prepares to reopen Monday, October 26.
State and federal officials are increasing surveillance and fly-trapping around affected locations to determine whether the parasitic pest has spread to additional animals.
The New Mexico Livestock Board has established an infested zone extending at least 12.4 miles from the affected animal’s location. Animals within the zone must be inspected and, when necessary, treated before being moved within or outside the designated area.
“We are working closely with our state and federal partners to investigate these cases, increase surveillance and monitor for additional infestations,” said State Veterinarian Dr. Samantha Holeck.
The confirmation comes as U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins visited Columbus on October 20 for a producer roundtable and press conference ahead of the livestock crossing’s scheduled reopening. Holeck also addressed the state’s screwworm response, emphasizing surveillance, producer communication, movement restrictions and treatment options.
New Mexico Secretary of Agriculture Jeff Witte cautioned that cooler weather will not eliminate the threat.
“Cold daytime temperatures can slow screwworm activity, but the risk is not completely eliminated,” Witte said, urging livestock producers and animal owners to remain vigilant.
Officials warn that screwworm flies can become more active during occasional warm days, even as temperatures generally decline. Animal owners should watch for wounds that worsen or fail to heal, visible maggots, swelling, foul-smelling discharge and unusual behavior such as persistent licking or biting at injuries.
Anyone suspecting an infestation should immediately contact the New Mexico Livestock Board and avoid moving the affected animal.
Maps of affected areas, movement requirements, reporting resources and updates are available at ScrewwormNM.org.
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