Flesh-Eating New World Screwworm Detected in Arizona Dog As Cases Spread
Summary
The USDA confirmed the first New World screwworm case in an Arizona dog after testing samples from a wound found in Cochise County. The dog is receiving veterinary care, and state and federal officials are responding as the parasite is detected in three states.Key Facts
- A veterinarian found a wound heavily infested with maggots on the dog on October 26.
- Laboratory testing confirmed New World screwworm in the dog, according to the USDA.
- The Arizona case is the state’s first confirmed detection of the parasite.
- As of October 28, the USDA had reported 71 confirmed animal cases nationwide since June, with 18 still active.
- Confirmed animal cases in the current outbreak have been reported in Arizona, Texas and New Mexico.
- New World screwworm larvae feed on living tissue in warm-blooded animals and can cause serious wounds.
- The parasite was last eradicated from the United States in 1966, according to the Texas Animal Health Commission.
- The FDA authorized generic ivermectin injection for use in cattle to help prevent infestations in specified situations.
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