New Mexico urges vigilance, still free of screwworm

New Mexico animal, wildlife and health officials are urging vigilance after the U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed a New World screwworm case in Zavala County, Texas, on June 3. The pest has not been detected in New Mexico as of June 5, and officials stress there is no cause for alarm. They ask residents, especially those traveling to South Texas with animals, to monitor for nonhealing wounds or unusual maggots and report suspicions promptly. Early detection is vital, and state preparedness resources are available.