According to Fox News 7 the New World screwworm has now been confirmed in animals in Caldwell, Gillespie, Travis, Uvalde, and Zavala counties. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), states that these flies lay eggs in open wounds, and the larvae (maggots) feed on living tissue, causing severe pain, infection, and even death if left untreated.
According to the USDA, the Texas Animal Health Commission, say pet owners should inspect their dogs and cats regularly for cuts, scrapes, hot spots, surgical incisions, or any other wounds and seek treatment promptly. Animals with open wounds are at the highest risk for screwworm infestation.
According to veterinary reports published by DVM360 and guidance following the FDA's emergency authorization, many veterinarians are recommending that pet owners keep Capstar (nitenpyram) on hand as a treatment option for suspected screwworm infestations. Veterinary experts also encourage keeping pets on veterinarian-recommended parasite prevention products, such as Bravecto, to help reduce the risk of parasites and flies affecting wounds. Pet owners should consult their veterinarian about the best prevention and treatment plan for their animals.
The best defense is prevention. Check your pets daily, keep wounds clean and covered when possible, maintain parasite prevention, and contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice a wound that is not healing, has a foul odor, or contains maggots. Early treatment can save your pet's life.
By San Saba County Friends of Animals