Story perspectives

New Mexico Confirms Screwworm Case, Sets 12.4-Mile Quarantine

By Drooid · Oct 27, 2026, 3:00 AM UTC · How we work

16 1

Summary

New Mexico Confirms Screwworm

New Mexico officials confirmed a screwworm case in a Hidalgo County calf, establishing a 12.4-mile quarantine zone.
The state reports five active screwworm cases across Hidalgo, Otero, Grant and Lea counties.
State Veterinarian Dr. Samantha Holeck said each case helps locate the parasite.
Officials are expanding fly-trapping and surveillance throughout southern New Mexico.
Livestock movement rules require inspection and treatment before animals travel within or out of 12.4-mile zones.

Summary

Officials Warn Outbreak

Officials say the screwworm outbreak threatens the $113 billion U.S. cattle industry.
Gerardo Fierro, executive director of the New Mexico Border Authority, valued regional cattle trade at $1 billion.
Port closures eliminated jobs, cattle sales, diesel tax revenue, and reduced demand for local alfalfa and grain.
Constrained supplies have pushed beef prices higher, complicating recovery for U.S. ranchers.

1 of 2

New Mexico Confirms Screwworm

New Mexico officials confirmed a screwworm case in a Hidalgo County calf, establishing a 12.4-mile quarantine zone.
The state reports five active screwworm cases across Hidalgo, Otero, Grant and Lea counties.
State Veterinarian Dr. Samantha Holeck said each case helps locate the parasite.
Officials are expanding fly-trapping and surveillance throughout southern New Mexico.
Livestock movement rules require inspection and treatment before animals travel within or out of 12.4-mile zones.

1 / 2