Updated June 22, 2026

New World Screwworm (NWS), scientific name Cochliomyia hominivorax, has been confirmed by the USDA in domestic animals. A map of current cases can be found on their website.

NWS is a flesh-eating maggot in its larval stage. It is unique because it consumes live flesh, unlike other maggots that eat dead tissue. NWS can infect animals, birds and even humans. It is often found in open wounds, the eyes, ears, nose, mouth and the umbilicus in neonates.

Any veterinarian suspicious of NWS should contact their State Animal Health Official, who will facilitate sample collection and submission to the National Veterinary Services Laboratory (NSVL) in Ames, Iowa.

Veterinary Support Services (VSS) veterinarians at the Cornell Animal Health Diagnostic Center can assist with this communication if needed. Please contact (607) 253-3900 or email diagcenter@cornell.edu for assistance.