FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
NM Livestock Board Contact: Dr. Samantha Holeck, State Veterinarian
Samantha.Holeck@nmlb.nm.gov | 505-841-6161
NMDA Contact: Jenny Green
Public Affairs Specialist
jgreen@nmda.nmsu.edu | 575-202-4249
October 21, 2026
PIÑON, N.M. – New Mexico animal health officials have confirmed a case of New World screwworm in a beef cow in Otero County.
State and federal officials are continuing to expand surveillance and fly-trapping around affected locations to identify any additional cases and determine whether the pest has spread beyond the affected animals.
“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 with the New Mexico Livestock Board.
Officials have established a minimum 12.4-mile radius infested zone around the affected animal’s location. Within this zone, animals must be inspected and, if necessary, treated before moving within or out of the area.
“This is a critical time as we move toward cooler weather. Cold daytime temperatures can slow screwworm activity, but the risk is not completely eliminated,” said New Mexico Secretary of Agriculture Jeff Witte. “Strong surveillance and continued coordination with our state and federal partners will help us detect new cases early and limit impacts through the fall and into next spring. We encourage livestock producers and animal owners to remain vigilant, monitor their animals closely and promptly report any suspected cases.”
Animal owners should closely monitor animals for wounds that fail to heal, worsening injuries, maggots in wounds, foul-smelling discharge or unusual irritation around an injury. Anyone who suspects NWS should immediately contact the New Mexico Livestock Board and avoid moving the affected animal.
Additional information, maps of affected areas, reporting resources and updates are available at ScrewwormNM.org.
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