06/09/2026
Many of my clients are messaging me about NWS (New World Screwworm), and understandably there are questions. New Mexico's motto on it is, 'Be Alert, Not Alarmed!' and that's exactly what I'd like from my clients.
This is a fly, that finds wounds or soft tissues and lays eggs. These eggs hatch into larvae and eat at the tissue then make the wound larger and larger, where it can eventually kill the host (when left untreated).
The best way to manage this pest is to stay AWARE and look at your animals thoroughly every. single. day.
If you notice a new wound, even a scratch, clean it and keep it fly sprayed or covered. Better yet, call your vet. If you see maggots - call me IMMEDIATELY so we can send samples for testing to the lab.
There are treatments if we find NWS on your animal(s), but there is not a vaccine. The best prevention is diligence on your part, and fly control.
Currently there are 4 reported cases in the United States, one is in Lea County, New Mexico. I am closely monitoring the situation and am in almost daily meetings regarding any changes.
Here are a couple important links for those interested. I wouldn’t put much stock in other sources of information, at this time.
screwwormNM.org screwworm.gov
