From Ars Technica · · 1m 20s
Flesh-eating screwworms reach Arizona, attack pets
The parasitic flies have spread to a third US state, infesting dogs and a cat as the infestation expands northward from the border.
In brief
The parasitic flies have spread to a third US state, infesting dogs and a cat as the infestation expands northward from the border. New World Screwworms have reached Arizona, joining New Mexico and Texas in a spreading infestation that has attacked ten pets since June. Originally reported by Ars Technica.
Screwworms spread to Arizona
New World Screwworms have reached Arizona this week, joining New Mexico and Texas. Seventy-four animal cases have been identified in the US since the flies re-invaded in June.
How the maggots attack
The flies lay hundreds of eggs in wounds and moist orifices of animals. The resulting maggots resemble screws and bore into living flesh, causing severe, sometimes fatal wounds.
Pets and people under threat
Most of the seventy-four US cases have been in livestock, but ten have been in domestic pets, mainly dogs. Mexico has confirmed eight hundred six human cases since the flies reemerged, with nine deaths.
Arizona's first case identified
Arizona's index case was found in a dog in Cochise County on October twenty-sixth. A veterinarian discovered a wound on the dog's back that was heavily infested with maggots consistent with screwworm characteristics.
“heavily infested with maggots consistent with NWS characteristics”
Officials urge vigilance and reporting
Arizona's agriculture department urged livestock owners, pet owners and animal industry partners to monitor animals closely and report any unusual wounds immediately.
What matters most
New World Screwworms have reached Arizona, joining New Mexico and Texas in a spreading infestation that has attacked ten pets since June.
