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

March 23, 2026
March Webinar Understanding New World Screwworm: Biology, Risks, and Response. March 23, 2026. 1 P.M. - 2 P.M. EDT. Headshots of speakers Ted Burgess and Nargiza Ludgate. Southeastern Coastal Center for Agricultural Health and Safety.

Join us for an informative webinar exploring the biology, history, and ongoing research surrounding the New World Screwworm (NWS). This session brings 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 will provide 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 will also discuss eradication efforts and highlight the University of Florida’s role in surveillance, response, and ongoing research related to NWS. Dr. Nargiza Ludgate will introduce her upcoming NWS scenario modeling project conducted through SCCAHS, outlining the purpose and goals of this work. 

Presenters

  • Assistant Professor Veterinary Entomology

    Edwin “Ted” Burgess

    University of Florida

    Contact
  • Research Assistant Scientist

    Nargiza Ludgate

    University of Florida

    Contact