06/10/2026
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has confirmed the first US cases of New World screwworm (NWS) in Texas and New Mexico. NWS is a serious pest that can affect livestock, pets, wildlife, and, in rare cases, people.
At this time, no additional detections have been reported. USDA and Texas animal health officials have launched an aggressive response aimed at containing and eradicating the pest.
The risk to Connecticut is currently considered low. The most likely route of introduction into New England would be through an infested dog or cat, particularly rescue animals imported from southern states or directly from Mexico. Veterinarians are encouraged to remain vigilant and consider NWS as a differential diagnosis when examining recently imported animals with suspicious wounds or lesions.
New World screwworm is a reportable disease. Veterinarians who suspect a case should contact the CT Department of Agriculture State Veterinarian at
(860) 713-2505 or [email protected] for assistance with diagnosis and confirmation. Additional information about New World screwworm is available at Screwworm.gov.
