New World Screwworms in Pets: What to Look Out For
Summary
The New World screwworm, a parasite that feeds on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals, was eradicated in the U.S. but is now spreading near the southern border after outbreaks in Central America and Mexico. Authorities are monitoring the risk closely, especially after a recent detection in a Texas calf, and warn pet owners to watch for symptoms in animals with wounds.Key Facts
- The New World screwworm was eliminated from the U.S. decades ago but is spreading from Central America and Mexico.
- In 2024, a screwworm case was confirmed in a calf in Texas, prompting efforts to contain it.
- This parasite lays eggs in wounds of warm-blooded animals; the larvae eat living tissue causing serious damage.
- Pets such as dogs and cats can be infected, especially if they have open or slow-healing wounds.
- Signs in pets include worsening wounds, swelling, pain, discharge, and possible visible larvae.
- Human infections are rare and usually happen through travel to affected areas; no current widespread public health risk in the U.S.
- Screwworm could harm wildlife populations and livestock, causing deaths if untreated.
- U.S. federal agencies have tightened import rules to prevent screwworm entry through animals from affected countries.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.