Uploaded March 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
For many farmers today, the New World screwworm is something they’ve only heard about in history books. But experts warn the threat it poses to livestock, wildlife, and even humans is very real.
In this report from Savannah, Georgia, University of Georgia Extension veterinary entomologist Nancy Hinkle explains why the screwworm is far more dangerous than the flies producers typically deal with on their farms. Unlike common livestock flies that cause irritation, screwworm larvae infest living tissue and can quickly become deadly if not treated.
Hinkle also discusses how the pest could spread rapidly through wildlife populations, including Georgia’s more than two million whitetail deer, potentially creating serious challenges for livestock producers across the region.
While there’s little producers can do right now to prevent the pest from appearing, awareness and preparation are critical. Experts say building strong relationships with veterinarians and having a response plan in place will be key if screwworms are detected in the United States again.
For many farmers today, the New World screwworm is something they’ve only heard about in history books. But experts warn the threat it poses to livestock, wildlife, and even humans is very real.
In this report from Savannah, Georgia, University of Georgia Extension veterinary entomologist Nancy Hinkle explains why the screwworm is far more dangerous than the flies producers typically deal with on their farms. Unlike common livestock flies that cause irritation, screwworm larvae infest living tissue and can quickly become deadly if not treated.
Hinkle also discusses how the pest could spread rapidly through wildlife populations, including Georgia’s more than two million whitetail deer, potentially creating serious challenges for livestock producers across the region.
While there’s little producers can do right now to prevent the pest from appearing, awareness and preparation are critical. Experts say building strong relationships with veterinarians and having a response plan in place will be key if screwworms are detected in the United States again.
