Agriculture officials have confirmed two more cases of New World screwworm in New Mexico, involving a horse and a calf in Grant County. Searchlight New Mexico said the cases bring the state’s total to four since the flesh-eating pest returned to the United States this summer. Officials have established infested zones extending at least 12.4 miles around the animals’ locations. Within those areas, livestock must be inspected and, if necessary, treated before being moved within or outside the zones. New Mexico State Veterinarian Samantha Holeck says officials are increasing surveillance and investigating the new cases with state and federal partners. Animal owners should watch for wounds that fail to heal, worsening injuries, foul-smelling discharge, or unusual irritation. Anyone in rural America suspecting a possible infestation should contact their state’s livestock board and avoid moving the animal. Early detection and prompt reporting are critical to limiting the pest’s spread.
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