First case of New World Screwworm confirmed in N.M., 4th in Texas

ANDREWS COUNTY, Texas (KFDA) - The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) says the New World screwworm has been confirmed in Andrews County.

Andrews County is southwest of Lubbock and just south of Seminole.

“On June 7, USDA announced two additional NWS cases in Texas — a calf in La Salle County with an umbilical lesion, and a dog in Andrews County,” the TAHC said.

While the veterinarian who reported the case is located in Texas, the dog lives at a home in Lea County, New Mexico.

The location of the case has been reclassified to the first case detected in New Mexico.

The USDA says this is believed to be an isolated case. However, because the dog’s recent travel and exposure history remain unknown, the USDA and state partners have initiated inspection of additional animals in the dog’s home.

“This situation is evolving, and we expect new information to emerge as our investigation continues. USDA is committed to sharing what we learn quickly, accurately, and transparently so animal owners and local communities have the information they need to stay vigilant,” said Dudley Hoskins, under secretary for marketing and regulatory programs. “We are working closely with our partners in New Mexico, Texas and across the region to ensure we identify, contain, and respond to any potential cases as swiftly as possible.”

New world screwworm larvae burrow into the tissue of animals and can cause severe wounds and suffering.

With affected livestock, there also could be connected economic losses.

“We’ve got more tools in the tool box, we’ve got better technology so as far as a hit to the beef system itself and the supply it’s, I guess I’m optimistic that there won’t be much of an effect on beef prices,” an official said.

Officials say they have also opened infestation sites in La Salle and Webb County as additional epidemiological investigations to learn more about the case.

Those located in the infested zones should stay updated with current movement requirements.

For current updates on New World screwworm cases and an impacted-area map, click here.