How to report suspected screwworm cases

U.S. Department of Agriculture urges everyone in areas of New World screwworm infestation to check animals for:

• draining or enlarging wounds

• maggots or egg masses

• signs of discomfort

• lesions in body openings (nose, ears, genitalia, umbilical area).

Anyone who suspects a screwworm infestation should immediately contact their veterinarian, state animal health official or USDA. 

Livestock

Report suspected cases of NWS directly to the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) Region Office at www.tahc.texas.gov/agency/contact.html, the State veterinarian on call at 1-800-550-8242 or their local veterinarian.

Livestock producers or owners outside of Texas who suspect NWS infestation should contact their veterinarian to evaluate the animal or herd. 

Wildlife

Report suspected cases of NWS in wildlife to Texas Parks & Wildlife (TPWD).

If you see signs of maggot infestations in live or very recently dead wild animals outside of Texas, especially in areas near the U.S./Mexico border, call 866-4USDA-WS (866-487-3297) to report it to your local USDA Wildlife Services office.

Pets

If you suspect screwworm in your pet, contact your veterinarian to evaluate the animal.

People

Contact your health provider if you think you may have screwworm. Healthcare providers report suspected cases to the local or State health department.

USDA is leading an aggressive, unified response to detections of NWS in the United States. If you have questions or need more information, contact USDA at screwworm@usda.gov.