Two More Screwworm Cases Confirmed in Arizona

The Arizona Department of Agriculture said the horse and domesticated ram have no known history of travel. Officials established a 12.4-mile infested zone around affected premises in Greenlee County, with restrictions on animal movement. Animals cannot leave the zone unless restrictions are lifted or the state veterinarian authorizes it.

The first Arizona case was found in a dog in Cochise County after a veterinarian examined it on October 26. A second case, in a horse, was also identified in Cochise County, about 45 miles from the first. The two Greenlee County cases bring the statewide total to four.

New World screwworm can affect livestock, pets and wildlife, and less commonly people. State officials are urging animal owners to check animals daily for enlarging or draining wounds, maggots or egg masses, discomfort, and lesions around body openings.

Owners who find wounds consistent with screwworm can contact the Arizona Department of Agriculture at [email protected] or 602-542-4293, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The department said it is coordinating with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, neighboring states and Mexican counterparts on the regional response.