New World Screwworm

The Texas Tech University School of Veterinary Medicine is committed to our Purpose of serving rural and regional communities.

The New World Screwworm (NWS) is an imminent threat to animal industries, and if not contained, could devastate the economic the vitality of rural and regional communities of Texas and beyond. Our School has mobilized efforts in support of national and State efforts to prevent, surveil, and control the NWS.

Communication and information sharing is a critical component of our efforts. Through this website, we are sharing timely resources, educational videos, and practical guidance to support early detection, prevention, and response efforts. Our goal is to equip stakeholders with the knowledge and tools needed to protect animal health, maintain business continuity, and stay ahead of this evolving challenge.

Most Recent News:

Updates regarding New World Screwworm detections and response efforts are occurring frequently. For the most current and authoritative information, we encourage visitors to review the USDA’s New World Screwworm confirmed detections dashboard, which provides up-to-date case information and official resources.

Stay vigilant
Stay up to date
Stay Prepared
Don’t forget to report

Educational Resources:

Life Cycle

The life cycle of New World Screwworm passes through the stages of egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The timing of the life cycle is temperature dependent. This video describes each of the life cycle stages and overall timing of the process.

Identification

Proper identification of the New World Screwworm requires a trained eye, experience, and final verification by the USDA. However, there are certain qualities of larvae and adults that provide clues as to preliminary identification as described in this video.

Control

Control of the New World Screwworm requires an integrated approach. Traditional use of sterile male technique is described in this video as well as the use of certain veterinary treatments and preventatives that have received emergency use authorization by the FDA and can be discussed with your veterinary medical provider.

One Health

One Health is an integrated framework encompassing human medicine, animal medicine, and environmental health. Addressing the New World Screwworm through an interdisciplinary lens provides enhanced opportunities for addressing this complex problem as described in the video.

Human Health

Background for Humans

This video provides an overview of New World screwworm and its relevance to human health. Learn what screwworm is, where it is found, and why it remains an important concern for people, livestock, and public health systems. This introduction is designed to give viewers a clear foundation before exploring infection, symptoms, and prevention in more detail.

Learn More About NWS

Human Infection

In this video, we explain how New World screwworm infects humans and what happens once an infestation begins. Learn how the organism enters the body, how it affects tissue, and what symptoms may develop. This information is intended to raise awareness and support early recognition of potential cases.

Watch How NWS Infects Humans

Human Treatment

This video covers the treatment of New World screwworm infestation in humans. We discuss available medical approaches, the importance of timely care, and why early intervention is critical to preventing complications. If you suspect a possible infection, seeking professional medical attention is essential.

Watch How to Treat NWS in Humans

Human Identification and Reporting

Learn how to recognize potential cases of New World screwworm and the importance of proper identification and reporting. This video outlines key signs to watch for and highlights why reporting suspected cases supports public health efforts and helps prevent the spread of infestation.

Watch How to Identify and Report

Additional Resources

School of Veterinary Medicine

Address

7671 Evans Drive, Amarillo, Texas 79106
Phone
806.742.3200
Email
SVM@ttu.edu