US authorities stepped up New World screwworm surveillance after confirming new cases in livestock and wildlife. On October 21, New Mexico reported a detection in a beef cow in Otero County, while Texas reported a case in an elk in Pecos County.
In New Mexico, an infested zone with a radius of at least 20 kilometers was established around the affected animal’s location. Within that perimeter, animals must be inspected and, where necessary, treated before moving within or out of the area. Surveillance and fly trapping were also expanded to determine the extent of the infestation.
In Texas, the parasite was detected in a female elk harvested by a hunter and confirmed through laboratory testing. The Animal Health Commission will adjust a previously established infested zone, while state authorities and the USDA intensify wildlife surveillance.
The statements announcing these new cases did not indicate any changes to the schedule for reopening border crossings with Mexico.
