Tennessee State Veterinarian issues alert for flesh-eating parasite
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — Tennessee State Veterinarian Dr. Samantha Beaty is urging animal owners in the state to be aware of an invasive pest after it was recently detected in Mexico.
While the flesh-eating parasite known as the New World Screwworm was eradicated from the United States decades ago, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced Monday it was temporarily suspending all cattle, horse and bison imports from Mexico after recent detections in the country.
The larvae of these parasitic flies feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals, causing painful infected wounds. Adult flies are slightly larger than houseflies, with metallic blue/green bodies, orange eyes, and three dark stripes on their backs.
Flesh-eating screwworm detected, US stops imports of Mexican cattle
Beaty said Tennessee's position along key travel, wildlife migration, and trade corridors increases the need for awareness among animal owners in the state. Species that could be affected include cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, horses, and other mammals, including pets and, in rare cases, humans.
'An international border means nothing to [New World Screwworm] or wildlife that may be carrying the larvae,' Dr. Beaty said. 'Livestock and pet owners should carefully inspect their animals and report any unusual or persistent wounds. [New World Screwworm] can cause devastating health impacts to affected animals, and early detection is critical to containment and treatment efforts. As with many animal health concerns, awareness and prevention go a long way in reducing the risk of spread to Tennessee.'
Wounds that won't heal or worsen over time
Foul-smelling discharge or visible larvae (maggots) in a wound
Signs of discomfort or unusual behavior, such as animals avoiding feed or isolating themselves
Infestation may be found in wounds resulting from routine procedures such as castration, dehorning, or branding, or from minor injuries like insect bites.
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Contact the State Veterinarian's office at 615-837-5120 or the USDA Area Veterinarian in Charge at 615-517-2642 if you suspect your animal has been affected by the New World Screwworm. On weekends and evenings, call 866-536-7593. Suspicious cases will be evaluated, and samples may be submitted for laboratory confirmation.
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