New World Screwworm Confirmed in Texas as Veterinarians Urge Pet Owners to Remain Vigilant
EAGLE PASS, Texas — The Texas Veterinary Medical Association is alerting pet owners across Texas after the confirmation of New World Screwworm in Zavala County, marking the first detection of the pest in the United States since it was eradicated in 1966.
According to veterinary officials, New World Screwworm flies lay eggs in wounds or skin openings on mammals. Once the eggs hatch, the larvae feed on living tissue, potentially causing severe injury, infection, and even death if left untreated. The recently confirmed case involved a calf in Zavala County, but officials warn that dogs, cats, livestock, wildlife, and even humans can be affected.
The Texas Veterinary Medical Association emphasized that there is no need for panic. Officials noted that the United States successfully eradicated New World Screwworm decades ago and that state and federal agencies have been preparing for a possible reemergence for more than a year. Response efforts are already underway across South Texas and approved treatments are available.
Veterinarians are encouraging pet owners to routinely inspect their animals for wounds and monitor them for unusual symptoms. Even small skin injuries such as scratches, insect bites, or surgical incisions can provide an opportunity for New World Screwworm flies to lay eggs.
Warning signs that pet owners should watch for include wounds that develop unusual swelling or discharge, foul odors coming from a wound, excessive licking or chewing, pain, loss of appetite, and unusual fatigue.
Veterinary officials strongly advise against attempting home treatment if New World Screwworm is suspected. Instead, pet owners should immediately contact their veterinarian for evaluation and testing. Veterinarians can collect samples and submit them for official laboratory testing when necessary.
Officials also warn that infected animals should not be moved unless directed by a veterinarian, as human transportation of infected animals is one of the primary ways the pest spreads. Suspected cases should also be reported to the Texas Animal Health Commission veterinarian on call.
The Texas Veterinary Medical Association released additional public guidance stressing that pet owners should regularly check their animals for wounds, keep those wounds clean, and seek veterinary care immediately if anything unusual is observed. The organization noted that early detection is critical not only for protecting pets but also for helping safeguard Texas livestock, wildlife, and public health.
The confirmation of New World Screwworm in Zavala County has placed South Texas communities on alert as animal health officials continue monitoring the situation and working to prevent the pest from spreading further.
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