ABILENE, Texas — New World Screwworm is a parasitic fly that lays its eggs in the open wounds of living, warm-blooded animals.
While it primarily affects cattle and other livestock, it can also infect dogs, cats and, in rare cases, humans.
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According to the Texas Animal Health Commission, there are currently more than 30 confirmed cases in Texas, spanning 13 counties and 26 affected premises.
The Abilene-Taylor County Public Health District has shared multiple posts on social media to help raise awareness and keep the community informed about the risk.
According to the CDC, some symptoms of New World Screwworm include:
Feeling or seeing maggots (larvae) move in a skin wound or sore, or in the ears, nose, eyes, or mouth.Painful skin wounds or sores that worsen within a few days.A foul-smelling odor from the site of the infestation.Bleeding from open sores.Bacterial infections may also occur in wounds where NWS maggots are present, leading to symptoms like fever or chills.
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New World Screwworm is a parasitic fly that lays its eggs in the open wounds of living, warm-blooded animals. (USDA)
Some ways to help prevent New World Screwworm, according to the CDC, are:
Keep open wounds clean and covered, no matter how small or location on the body.Sleep indoors with closed windows or screened open windows. If you are outside, sleep under a bed net or inside a screened tent.Protect your skin and prevent insect bites byUsing an EPA-registered insect repellent.Treating clothing and gear with products containing 0.5% permethrin.Wearing loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and pants, hats, and socks to limit access to your body by NWS flies.
If you see or feel these maggots, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
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According to the Texas Animal Health Commission, there are currently more than 30 confirmed cases in Texas, spanning 13 counties and 26 affected premises. (KTXS/Scott Martin)
Do not try and remove the maggots or eggs on your own.
If the maggot or eggs fall our of the wound, place them in a leak-proof container with rubbing alcohol to kill them. Then proceed to bring them to your healthcare provider.
KTXS will be speaking with some ranchers and buyers at the Abilene Livestock Auction update this article with more information as we get it.