State agriculture officials confirmed Tuesday, Oct. 27, that New World screwworm has been found in a sheep on the New Mexico State University campus in Las Cruces and in a cow at another location in Doña Ana County.

The cases triggered an infested zone covering much of the Las Cruces area, according to a joint announcement from the New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) and the New Mexico Livestock Board, first reported by Organ Mountain News.

Fly traps have already been placed on the NMSU campus. State and federal officials are expanding surveillance and trapping operations around both locations to determine whether the parasite has spread.

"With cases now confirmed in Doña Ana County, we encourage the NMSU community and surrounding residents to stay vigilant, recognize the warning signs and report concerns quickly," New Mexico Secretary of Agriculture Jeff Witte said in a statement.

What the infested zone means for residents

The infested zone extends at least 12.4 miles around each confirmed case location. State officials said the designation does not restrict everyday activities for people. It does affect animals.

Animals within the zone must be inspected within five days before being moved. They must also meet identification requirements and receive treatment when required, according to the NMDA. Additional documentation or approval may be necessary.

Pet owners who need to transport animals outside the zone should contact the New Mexico Livestock Board to arrange the required inspection, the Santa Fe New Mexican reported.

Residents can check whether their property falls inside the zone at ScrewwormNM.org.

Statewide case count rising

The Doña Ana County detections follow confirmed cases in Grant, Hidalgo, Lea and Otero counties. Organ Mountain News reported the statewide total at eight confirmed animal cases. The Santa Fe New Mexican put the count at nine as of Tuesday. New Mexico's first case was confirmed in June.

The Las Cruces Sun-News reported that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) confirmed the two Doña Ana County cases Oct. 26. The USDA database listed the cases as confirmed Oct. 24 in cattle and a sheep, the Sun-News reported.

The outbreak comes as the USDA gradually restores cross-border livestock trade. Cattle imports resumed at the Santa Teresa port of entry Sept. 24, and the Columbus port reopened Oct. 26, according to Organ Mountain News. The USDA said the phased reopening is subject to animal health safeguards and ongoing risk assessments.

Warning signs and how to report

New World screwworm larvae feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals. Untreated infestations can become life-threatening within days, according to the NMDA. The parasite can affect livestock, wildlife, pets and, less commonly, humans.

Warning signs include wounds that worsen or fail to heal, visible maggots, swelling, foul-smelling discharge and unusual behavior such as persistent licking or biting around a wound. Animals with recent surgical wounds, branding injuries or exposed navels face increased risk.

Animal owners who suspect an infestation should not move the animal. They should contact a veterinarian and report the case to the New Mexico Livestock Board at 505-841-6161. After hours, the AgroGuard hotline is available at 800-525-2782.

Suspected human infestations should be reported to the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) at 833-796-8773.