Flesh-Eating New World Screwworm Making a Comeback in States Surrounding Oklahoma
The parasite has infected more than 120 animals since June, and officials say cattle and sheep are the main livestock at risk.
- The New World screwworm has spread to Eddy County, with more than 120 animals detected since June. November already marks the highest case count recorded.
- Dr. Jonathan Cammack, Oklahoma State University extension specialist, warned that livestock trailers can transport cows 600 miles daily, stating, "Really, our concern is livestock."
- The parasite lays eggs in open wounds where larvae feed on living tissue. Cammack noted current case numbers are the highest the United States has seen since 1979.
- Oklahoma State University experts told KOCO 5 that cooler temperatures favor the state. Cammack said, "It is highly unlikely that we will see a natural infestation occur in the state of Oklahoma."
- Hunters are asked to remain vigilant for signs including restless behavior or licking of wounds. Officials urge immediate reporting of any suspected larvae to protect livestock and wildlife populations.
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Santa New Mexican
Searchlight New MexicoNew World screwworm spreads in New Mexico amid warm, wet fall
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has confirmed new cases of the parasite in recent days in both Eddy and Sierra counties
Koco News5
Flesh-eating New World screwworm making a comeback in states surrounding Oklahoma
The tiny fly lays eggs in open wounds and the larvae feed on living tissue, raising fears it could spread closer to Oklahoma.
New World Screwworm Reaches Eddy County as New Mexico Cases Rise to 39
New Mexico’s New World screwworm outbreak has reached Eddy County, with the first case reported near Hope. The parasite can be fatal to livestock if untreated, prompting an infested zone and stricter inspections for animals entering or leaving the area. The state reported 39 cases statewide as Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham declared an emergency and allocated $750,000 for the response.
Flesh-eating screwworm is spreading in the US, threatening livestock and wildlife – and hunters can be the first line of defense
For the first time in over 50 years, an infestation of the flesh-eating fly known as the New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) is spreading on the U.S. mainland, and it is putting livestock and other animals at risk. The New World screwworm doesn’t just attack cattle. All warm-blooded animals are susceptible, including deer and elk, as well as small game and waterfowl. That means hunters h...
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