Pet Alert: Veterinarians Urge Owners to Watch for Signs of New World Screwworm
Animal health experts are urging pet owners to stay alert following several recent cases of New World screwworm (NWS) detected in Texas, including a confirmed case in a dog.
While there are currently no confirmed cases in Connecticut, veterinarians say early detection is critical to preventing the spread of this dangerous parasite.
What Is New World Screwworm?
New World screwworm is a type of parasitic fly whose larvae (maggots) feed on the living tissue of animals.
Unlike typical maggots, which feed on dead tissue, screwworm larvae burrow into healthy flesh. This can cause painful wounds, serious infections, and, if left untreated, severe illness or even death.
The parasite can affect:
Dogs
Cats
Horses
Livestock
Wildlife
Rarely, humans
How Do Pets Become Infected?
Female screwworm flies lay their eggs in open wounds or body openings. Even small injuries can become entry points.
Areas at highest risk include:
Cuts and scrapes
Surgical incisions
Tick bite sites
Ears
Nose
Eyes
Genital areas
The umbilical area of newborn animals
Once the eggs hatch, the larvae begin feeding on living tissue.
Signs Every Pet Owner Should Know
Veterinarians recommend checking your pets regularly, especially if they spend time outdoors.
Watch for:
⚠️ Wounds that aren't healing
⚠️ Bloody or foul-smelling discharge
⚠️ Excessive licking, chewing, or scratching at a wound
⚠️ Visible maggots in a wound or body opening
⚠️ Loss of appetite
⚠️ Lethargy or unusual discomfort
If you notice any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Should Pet Owners Be Worried?
Experts emphasize that there is no need to panic, but there is good reason to stay informed.
Government agencies and animal health officials are actively responding to recent detections through surveillance programs, movement controls, and the release of sterile screwworm flies to prevent the parasite from spreading.
The most important thing pet owners can do is inspect their animals regularly and seek prompt veterinary care for wounds.
Can Screwworm Be Prevented?
Currently, there is no vaccine for New World screwworm.
The best protection is:
✅ Prompt treatment of wounds
✅ Keeping wounds clean and covered when possible
✅ Regularly checking pets for injuries
✅ Seeking veterinary care for wounds that look unusual or fail to heal
Is My Family at Risk?
Human cases are extremely rare.
In addition, animal health officials stress that New World screwworm does not affect the safety of the U.S. food supplyand cannot be contracted from eating meat or other foods.
What To Do If You Suspect Screwworm
If you see a suspicious wound, maggots, or signs of infection:
Contact your veterinarian immediately.
Do not attempt to remove larvae yourself without veterinary guidance.
Follow your veterinarian's recommendations for diagnosis and treatment.
Early intervention can make a significant difference in outcomes.
The Bottom Line
The recent screwworm detections are a reminder to pay close attention to cuts, scrapes, and unusual wounds on our pets. While cases remain limited, veterinarians say awareness is one of the best tools we have to protect dogs, cats, livestock, and wildlife.
A quick daily check of your pet could help catch a problem before it becomes serious.
