From Newsweek · · 1m 40s
New World Screwworm Detected in Arizona Dog
Arizona confirms first U.S. case of flesh-eating New World screwworm in dog as infestations spread.
In brief
Arizona confirms first U.S. case of flesh-eating New World screwworm in dog as infestations spread. Arizona reports first confirmed New World screwworm case in a dog, part of a U.S.-Mexico border outbreak with 71 confirmed animal cases nationwide. Originally reported by Newsweek.
First Confirmed Case in Arizona
Arizona confirmed its first New World screwworm case in a dog on October 28.
“We have been preparing for this possibility for a long while and are acting swiftly.”
USDA Confirms Detection
The USDA identified New World screwworm in samples from the dog in Cochise County, Arizona.
Infestation Timeline
First confirmed U.S. animal case in Texas on June 3, with cases spreading to New Mexico and Arizona by October.
Current Outbreak Status
71 confirmed animal cases nationwide since June, with 18 active cases across Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona.
FDA Emergency Authorization
The FDA authorized Bimectin to prevent New World screwworm infestations in cattle within 24 hours of birth.
First Wildlife Case
New World screwworm detected in an elk in Texas on October 21, marking the first U.S. wildlife case.
Arizona Response Plan
Arizona established a 20-kilometer infested zone and implemented animal movement controls to contain the outbreak.
Pet Owner Guidance
Pet owners should inspect animals daily for wounds, maggots, or lesions and report suspected cases to veterinarians.
CDC Public Health Note
The CDC reported no human infestations in the U.S. during the current outbreak, with over 209,400 animal cases in Central America and Mexico.
What to Watch For
Signs of infestation include draining wounds, maggots, unusual discomfort, and lesions around body openings.
At a glance
Arizona reports first confirmed New World screwworm case in a dog, part of a U.S.-Mexico border outbreak with 71 confirmed animal cases nationwide.
