Item 5: New World Screwworm Crisis Presentation — original pdf

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New World Screwworm NWS Data and images from TAHC, USDA, TVMA Animal Advisory Commission July 13, 2026 Dr. Debbie Elliott Cochliomyia hominivorax ➢The larvae of the fly are obligate parasites that only infest living tissue of warm- blooded animals, including livestock, wildlife, pets, humans and birds (rarely), causing a condition known as myiasis ➢ • Hominivorax = “man” eater ➢• Often fatal to the infested animal Larvae ❖Screwworm refers to the screw-like shape of the larvae and the way the larva burrows into the flesh. ❖Larvae are parasitic consuming living flesh for 5-7 days then fall off the host to pupate in the ground. ❖This is the stage that we may see them in the wounds of living animals. ❖Once the animal is deceased, the larvae detect the cooler body temperature and will fall off the host and pupate on the ground, despite the age of the larvae. TAHC Lifecycle What We May See • Maggots or egg clusters in wounds of live animals • Requires notification of DVM immediately. (delay in treatment is fatal) • Treatment options: FDA Approved: Capstar, NexGard Combo (cats), Nexgard, Credelio. • Isoxazolines – Simparica, Bravecto (Expulsion and larvicidal) • Immediate wound management and removal of larvae Reportable • Domestic Animals - reportable disease to the TX Animal Health Commission by the veterinarians • Wildlife reporting and collection is to the TX Parks & Wildlife Dept biologist Current Location and Spread Since July 12 Current Outbreak Mexico Dogs 0.002% Cats 0.000052 % Thank you! Dr. Debbie Elliott Austin Animal Services Manager Veterinary Services