New World Screwworm Reappears in Florida, Hitting First Dog Since 2017
Updated
Updated · Fox Weather · Jul 7
New World Screwworm Reappears in Florida, Hitting First Dog Since 2017
3 articles · Updated · Fox Weather · Jul 7
Summary
Florida officials reported the first dog case of New World screwworm since a small 2017 Florida Keys outbreak, renewing warnings that the flesh-eating parasite threatens pets, livestock, wildlife and, less often, humans.
200 to 300 eggs can be laid in a wound or body opening, where larvae burrow into living tissue for about 7 days before dropping to the ground and emerging as adult flies.
CDC and veterinary experts urged owners to keep even small cuts clean and covered, check pets frequently, monitor surgical wounds and seek veterinary care for swelling, irritation, foul odor or visible maggots.
The parasite does not spread directly between animals or from animals to humans, but a tiny untreated wound can trigger infestation, making routine wound care the main defense.