Facts about New World Screwworms
New World Screwworm (NWS) infections have been featured on the news and social media recently. As this parasite can affect all warm-blooded animals, reports have caused concern for pet owners nationwide.
Current infections are significant because NWS had largely been eradicated in the United States until cases were discovered this year. However, currently active cases are few, and are limited to the state of Texas.
To put minds at ease, we are providing the following information:
New World Screwworms are a specific species of parasitic fly attracted to wounds and
body openings in warm-blooded animals. They lay eggs in bodily tissue which develop into larvae that cause significant damage to the host animal. This parasite is a particular threat to livestock, but can also affect warm-blooded pets.
More facts:
- Currently, there have been 12 reported cases, all but one of which have been in the state of Texas. The final case was reported in New Mexico, on the Texas border.
- 11 of the 12 cases have been in livestock; the final case was reported in a dog.
- Currently, there have been no reported cases in the majority of the United States, including California and its neighboring states.
- Flea and Tick products in the Isoxazoline class (Simparica, Nexgard, Credelio) have been found to have anti-larval properties and are considered a good first-line of defense against NWS.
- FDA has issued emergency use authorization to Nexgard and Credelio for treatment of NWS infections.
Veterinarians in California “watching” NWS infection reports, but are not concerned at this time. While we strongly recommend Isoxazoline class preventatives to control fleas and ticks, we are not advising any special precautions against NWS currently.
We will keep you informed if and when changes develop. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us!
__________________The Great Parasite Hunt
Nationwide, 20% of pets carry undiagnosed parasites that can harm pets and their families. The CDC recommends pets be screened at least yearly for Internal Parasites and Tick-Borne Diseases.
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1691 Melrose Dr. Suite # 110 San Marcos, CA 92078
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