The Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) has issued a call for livestock and poultry owners to closely monitor their animals for signs of New World Screwworm (NWS) and Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). This advisory comes after recent detections of NWS in Mexico near the Texas border and a rise in HPAI cases across the United States, including cases in wild birds in Colorado. At this time, there are no known cases of screwworm in Colorado or elsewhere in the United States.
Dr. Maggie Baldwin, Colorado State Veterinarian, stated, “The recent detections of New World Screwworm in northern Mexico underscore the critical need for continued vigilance in surveillance and reporting. We have been working on a comprehensive New World Screwworm response plan for Colorado, and we are prepared to coordinate with local, state, and federal agencies to implement measures such as quarantine, treatment, movement restrictions, and sterile insect technique if a case is detected.”
Veterinarians are encouraged to immediately contact the State Veterinarian’s office if they suspect NWS. Recommended actions include inspecting animals that have traveled internationally, documenting suspected infestations with photos and videos, recording travel history, and preserving larvae for testing in alcohol solutions. Additional information is available on the CDA Screwworm webpage.
With regard to HPAI, the increase in detections nationally and among wild birds in Colorado is associated with the migration season, as migrating birds can carry the virus. While there have been no domestic poultry cases in Colorado since March, several wild birds—an owl, three turkey vultures, and two red-tailed hawks—have tested positive for HPAI this fall in Larimer, Weld, and Gunnison counties. These findings indicate the virus is present in the central flyway, and poultry owners are urged to maintain strong biosecurity practices during migration.
Dr. Peach Van Wick, CPW State Wildlife Veterinarian, said, “The detections of HPAI in wild birds in Colorado are similar to reports from other wildlife agencies in nearby states and provinces. CPW relies on public observation and reporting of sick or dying wild birds and urges the public to contact their local CPW office to report suspect cases.”
There have been no human cases of HPAI in Colorado since the summer of 2024.
Dr. Allison Kohnen, State Public Health Veterinarian, commented, “The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) is committed to working closely with CDA and other partners to ensure the safety of Coloradans. It’s important to avoid contact with sick or dead wildlife without the proper personal protective equipment (PPE).”
Cases of HPAI in poultry, dairy cattle, or other livestock must be reported directly to the State Veterinarian’s Office. Suspected cases in cats can be reported to CDPHE, which will coordinate with CDA. Officials emphasize that delays in reporting can hinder response efforts and potentially affect both animal and human health. More information can be found on the CDA HPAI landing page.
