The New Mexico Department of Agriculture added two new New World screwworm cases on Friday, bringing the total for this season to four. The infected animals—a horse and a calf—were found in Grant County, where a previous horse case was identified in September.
Expanded monitoring and response
State and federal animal‑health officials are increasing surveillance and deploying additional fly‑traps around the affected sites. Two infested zones have been established, requiring inspection and treatment of livestock within the designated areas.
“We appreciate the continued cooperation of livestock producers, veterinarians and animal owners as we respond to these additional cases,” said New Mexico Secretary of Agriculture Jeff Witte. “Early detection and prompt reporting are critical to limiting the spread of this pest. We encourage everyone to remain vigilant and work closely with animal health officials.”
What producers should watch for
Animal owners are urged to monitor wounds that fail to heal, worsen, contain maggots, or emit foul‑smelling discharge. Any suspected cases should be reported to the New Mexico Livestock Board, and owners should avoid moving infected animals.
Context of the Santa Teresa crossing
The new cases were confirmed shortly after the Santa Teresa cattle crossing reopened at the end of September. The crossing had been closed for nearly two years after New World screwworm was detected in neighboring Mexico. The border crossing typically sees between 3,000 and 3,500 cattle pass through daily.
Previous detections this year included a horse in September and a dog in Lea County in June. Ongoing vigilance remains essential to protect New Mexico’s livestock industry from this destructive parasite.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.
