New World screwworms (NWS) are larvae or maggots of the NWS fly (Cochliomyia hominivorax), that cause the painful condition NWS myiasis. NWS flies lay eggs in open wounds or orifices of live tissue. These eggs hatch into dangerous parasitic larvae, and the maggots burrow or screw into flesh with sharp mouth hooks. The wound can become larger, and an infestation can often cause serious, deadly damage. NWS primarily infest livestock, but can also affect mammals, including humans, and birds.

Source: Texas Animal Health Commission

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

“The most effective thing you can do is have eyes on your animal.”

Monitor

Check for flies, maggots, larvae, or eggs.

Check for foul smells or drainage in and around body openings.

Isolate

Animals with suspicious wounds or signs should not be moved from the current location Avoid moving animals from a pasture or premises, only pen or corral to prevent further spread Keep suspect animals in one area while you wait for collection to occur.

Source: Texas Animal Health Commission

The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) must be notified within 24 hours of all suspected and confirmed cases of NWS. Reports can be made to any TAHC region office by anyone, not just veterinarians or diagnostic laboratories. Suspected infestations of NWS should be immediately reported.

Report to TAHC: 1-800-550-8242

Source: Texas Animal Health Commission

• USDA NWS Information

• Texas Animal Health Commission

• TAHC Infested Zone Map