10/29/2026
Guess it's time to get really serious about flies
On October 28, 2026, the Arizona Department of Agriculture (AZDA) in cooperation with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced Arizona's index (first) case of New World screwworm (NWS). The confirmed case was found in a canine in Cochise County when a local veterinarian examined the animal on the evening of October 26 and identified a wound on the canine's back heavily infested with maggots consistent with NWS characteristics. Scientific testing, in coordination with federal partners, verified the species.
"We have been preparing for this possibility for a long while and are acting swiftly," said State Veterinarian Dr. Ryan Wolker. "Because of the extensive outreach, coordination, and surveillance already in place, Arizona producers, veterinarians, and pet owners know what to look for and how to report suspected cases. That preparation is allowing us to move quickly to protect animal health in the state."
To read the full press release, click here: https://agriculture.az.gov/news/arizona-detects-first-confirmed-case-new-world-screwworm-nws-cochise-county-arizona
