As Texas officials ramp up efforts to stop the spread of the New World screwworm, many Texans are wondering whether the flesh-eating parasite could affect their families and pets.
The answer is yes.
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While the New World screwworm primarily threatens livestock and wildlife, experts say dogs, cats and even humans can become infected under certain circumstances.
The parasite develops when a female screwworm fly lays eggs in an open wound. After the eggs hatch, the larvae burrow into and feed on living tissue, causing painful injuries that can become severe if left untreated.
Can dogs and cats get screwworm?
According to information cited by the Texas Tribune and state officials, household pets are vulnerable to screwworm infestations because even small cuts, scrapes or surgical wounds can attract the flies.
The warning comes as federal officials recently confirmed a screwworm case involving a dog in New Mexico, highlighting that pets can be affected by the parasite.
Veterinarians say pet owners should regularly check their animals for injuries and monitor wounds closely, especially during warmer months when flies are more active.
Signs of a possible screwworm infestation in pets include:
- Visible larvae or maggots in a wound
- A foul odor coming from an injury
- Excessive licking or biting at a wound
- Swelling or tissue damage
- Unusual lethargy or discomfort
Experts recommend seeking veterinary care immediately if a pet has a wound that appears infected or contains larvae.
Can people get screwworm?
Human infections are much less common, but health experts say they can occur.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people can become infected if a screwworm fly lays eggs in an open wound or other vulnerable area of the body.
Once the eggs hatch, the larvae feed on living tissue, causing painful and potentially serious injuries.
Health officials say symptoms may include:
- A wound that becomes increasingly painful
- Foul-smelling drainage
- Bleeding or discharge
- Visible larvae in the affected area
- Worsening tissue damage
The CDC notes that untreated infestations can lead to significant tissue destruction and other complications.
How can Texans protect themselves and their pets?
Experts recommend:
- Cleaning and covering all wounds promptly
- Monitoring cuts, scrapes and surgical sites for signs of infection
- Checking pets regularly for injuries
- Seeking medical or veterinary attention for wounds that are slow to heal
- Reporting suspected cases to health or agricultural officials
Is screwworm spreading in Texas?
State officials have expanded their response to the growing threat as cases continue to be detected closer to Texas. The parasite was eradicated from the United States decades ago through a sterile-fly program, but officials are working to prevent it from becoming reestablished.
While the current threat is focused primarily on livestock, experts say awareness is important because the parasite can infect any warm-blooded animal — including pets and, in rare cases, people.
Officials emphasize that screwworm is not spread through eating meat and does not pose a food safety risk to consumers.