What Is Screwworm and Why Is Texas Paying Attention?

Posted by Mosquito Squad Plus

June 17, 2026

What Is Screwworm and Why Is Texas Paying Attention?

New World screwworm sounds a bit exotic for the Fort Worth area as far as household pests are concerned.

Whether it sounds unfamiliar, old-fashioned, or like a term akin to only agricultural issues, screwworm is probably a term you’ve recently heard or read about. If you have actually heard of New World screwworm, or NWS, this might be the first time in decades it’s come up in everyday language. Why is screwworm getting attention now?

Here in 2026 NWS is receiving renewed attention, especially in Texas and New Mexico. In no way have we reached a level close to panic, but this fly-borne pest can negatively impact cattle, goats, horses, and wildlife, as well as pets. For a state with an extensive livestock industry and residents with active outdoor lifestyles, awareness about the reemergence of New World screwworm is important.

At Mosquito Squad Plus of Fort Worth, we always believe that residents are better served with concise and practical information about pests, infestations, and the potential for illnesses they might cause.

What is NWS?

New World screwworm is a parasitic fly, whose adults lay their eggs specifically on the open wounds or orifices of mammals. When their eggs hatch, the larvae burrow into the living animal’s tissue. That very fact specifically differentiates screwworm from other types of flies or maggots, which are commonly associated with infesting decaying flesh or organic materials – screwworm larvae feed on living tissue. An infestation can be painful for the afflicted animal, and if not diagnosed and treated promptly, it can become life-threatening.

Any wound, including cuts, bug bites, brands, or surgical wounds, can attract screwworm flies.

Is Screwworm Different from Other Fly Problems?

Screwworm is not the same as the usual nuisance fly suspects that gather around trashcans, patios, pet waste, or areas of moisture. However, flies are generally attracted to pretty specific conditions. The presence of organic matter, moisture, wounds, or typical resting areas, will almost guarantee that fly pressure will be noticeable if not addressed.

Practicing outdoor maintenance to keep flies at bay will go a long way with screwworm flies too. The less likely these flies are to enter your property, the lower your chances of dealing with a possible infestation. Cleaning up yard waste, including grass clippings, leaf debris, and animal waste are very important for making your property less fly-friendly. It’s also important to keep food waste and compost areas away from your home, your livestock, and your pets.

Fly Control is Important for Fort Worth Area Properties

For the majority of Fort Worth residents, the best response to screwworm is to remain informed, monitor pets and livestock for wounds, keep outdoor areas clean, and don’t discount noticeable fly activity. In addition proper outdoor maintenance, professional fly control matters when it comes to deterring flies altogether, including screwworm flies.

Mosquito Squad Plus of Fort Worth is pleased to offer full-service pest control solutions that are targeted and customizable for each property and the types of pests that live there – including flies, mosquitoes, ticks, spiders, wasps, and many more. With a thorough property assessment, tailored treatment protocol, continued monitoring, and recurring treatments, we can help you feel more comfortable in the wake of confirmed cases of New World screwworm in Texas.

Where do we offer outdoor pest control services?

Mosquito Squad Plus is so much more than a mosquito control company. We’re pleased to offer pest control in Fort Worth and throughout these areas, including:

Get Fort Worth Pest Control with Mosquito Squad Plus of Fort Worth.

Mosquito Squad Plus of Fort Worth brings expertise and professionalism and is committed to exceptional customer service with every job we undertake. Get in touch with us online or call (817) 835-8694 for pest control in Fort Worth TX.