New Mexico leaders push funding to fight screwworm after 1 local case

SANTA FE, N.M. – New Mexico leaders are backing a bipartisan bill after 12 confirmed U.S. screwworm cases, including one case in a Lea County dog.

New Mexico State Veterinarian Dr. Samantha Holeck said the parasite has spread to New Mexico, though officials say they have not found any human cases.

“This is also not a political issue this is a nationwide issue that we all need to address because it affects all warm blooded animals including humans,” Holeck said.

U.S. Reps. Gabe Vasquez and Teresa Leger Fernandez support the Protect America’s Herds Act.

The bill would create a grant program to train people to identify, treat, prevent and report screwworm. It would also support more livestock inspections and education for ranchers.

Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez said she heard concerns from tribal leaders about the cost of protecting cattle herds.

“I spoke with one of our tribal leaders today and they have cattle operation and they’re worried, and they’re talking about how much more money they’re having to pay to go make sure they check on their herds and there are extra costs,” Leger Fernandez said.

Funding would prioritize states and tribal communities most at risk for screwworm outbreaks.

State health officials said screwworm is not a food safety issue. They also said ranchers should stay alert but not alarmed.