State Veterinarian warning TN pet, livestock owners about possible return of parasitic fly

From Local 3 News: State Veterinarian Dr. Samantha Beaty is warning animal owners across Tennessee to be aware of New World Screwworm (NWS).

The invasive pest poses a serious threat to livestock and other warm-blooded animals, including pets.

New World Screwworm is a parasitic fly whose larvae feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals, causing painful infected wounds, which poses a serious threat to livestock and other warm-blooded animals, including pets.

Although the pest was eradicated from the United States decades ago, recent detections in Mexico highlight the potential for reintroduction and spread, particularly in southern states.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently announced the suspension of live cattle, horse, and bison imports along the southern U.S. border in response to the discovery.

Dr. Beaty said Tennessee’s position along key travel, wildlife migration, and trade corridors heightens the need for increased awareness.

“An international border means nothing to NWS or wildlife that may be carrying the larvae,” Dr. Beaty said. “Livestock and pet owners should carefully inspect their animals and report any unusual or persistent wounds. NWS can cause devastating health impacts to affected animals, and early detection is critical to containment and treatment efforts. As with many animal health concerns, awareness and prevention go a long way in reducing the risk of spread to Tennessee.”

Dr. Beaty said adult flies are slightly larger than houseflies, with metallic blue/green bodies, orange eyes, and three dark stripes on their backs.

Here are signs to help you know if your pet or livestock have been affected:

• Wounds that won’t heal or worsen over time
• Foul-smelling discharge or visible larvae (maggots) in a wound
• Signs of discomfort or unusual behavior, such as animals avoiding feed or isolating themselves
• Infestation may be found in wounds resulting from routine procedures such as castration, dehorning, or branding, or from minor injuries like insect bites.

Domesticated species that could be affected include cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, horses, and other mammals, including pets and, in rare cases, humans.

Animal owners can remain vigilant for NWS by using the following tips:

• Checking animals regularly, especially if animals have traveled internationally
• Owners should inspect wounds and treat them promptly

If you are moving pets or livestock across borders, owners should ensure the animals are properly inspected and obtain appropriate movement permits and documents

If you suspect New World Screwworm, call the State Veterinarian’s office at 615-837-5120 or the USDA Area Veterinarian in Charge at 615-517-2642.

You can also call 866-536-7593 on weekends and evenings.

Dr. Beaty said suspicious cases will be evaluated, and samples may be submitted for laboratory confirmation.