Understanding New World Screwworm (NWS): Biology, Risks, and Response

This webinar was recorded on March 23, 2026. Presentations explore the biology, history, and ongoing research surrounding the New World Screwworm (NWS). This session brought together experts from the University of Florida and the Southern Center for Agricultural Health and Safety (SCCAHS) to share key insights on an emerging issue. Dr. Edwin Burgess provides a comprehensive overview of NWS, including its life cycle and biological traits, historical outbreaks and impacts, disease progression in affected animals, and available treatment options. He discusses eradication efforts and highlights the University of Florida’s role in surveillance, response, and ongoing research related to NWS. Dr. Nargiza Ludgate intrroduces her upcoming NWS scenario modeling project conducted through SCCAHS, outlining the purpose and goals of this work.