Watch for signs of New World screwworm infestation of open wounds on animals. Your awareness helps protect New Mexico’s livestock, pets and wildlife:
– Open wounds that worsen or do not heal
– Animals exhibiting restlessness, licking or biting at a wound, or isolating themselves
– Visible maggots in wounds
– Swelling, discharge, foul smell or unusual tissue deterioration
These signs may be noticed before an infestation is recognized and can be mistaken for illness, injury complications, or other health conditions. Animal owners should closely inspect any wound that is not healing normally. Anyone who observes a suspicious wound or suspects NWS should immediately contact the New Mexico Livestock Board and avoid moving the affected animal.
For more information about New World screwworm, visit screwwormnm.org.
NOTE: New World screwworm has been detected in a canine that resides in Lea County, New Mexico. The dog is receiving treatment from its primary veterinarian and is recovering in Andrews, Texas. This is the only confirmed New World screwworm case in the state at this time (as of June 9).
