Fifth New World Screwworm Case Confirmed in Arizona Near Thacher
Arizona officials confirmed the fifth case of New World screwworm in the state, located near Thacher in eastern Arizona.
Phoenix, AZ, November 8, 2026 —
Arizona officials have confirmed the discovery of the fifth case of New World screwworm within the state. The affected area is located near Thacher, situated in eastern Arizona.
The New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) is a parasitic fly whose larvae infest the wounds of warm-blooded animals, feeding on living tissue. The confirmation of this fifth case by state authorities signifies an ongoing concern for livestock and wildlife health in the region.
Specific details regarding the animal affected, the exact date of discovery, or the condition of the animal were not immediately provided. The scope of any potential spread or the specific measures being undertaken by Arizona officials in response to this latest finding were also not detailed in the available information. The name of the specific official or agency confirming the case was not provided.
The presence of New World screwworm can pose a significant threat to animal agriculture and native wildlife populations. While this report confirms the fifth instance, further information regarding the history of the other four cases, including their locations and timelines, was not provided.
Officials in Arizona are continuing to monitor the situation. The contractor involved in the confirmation or any inspection outcomes were not specified. No code violations or fine amounts were mentioned in relation to this discovery.
Story summarized from the original created by Connor Greenwall on www.kjzz.org, see more information here.
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