Austin health officials are monitoring an outbreak of cattle-killing flies in Texas as cases reach double-digits.
So far, 10 active cases of New World screwworms have been reported in Texas, the U.S. Department of Agriculture says. None of the cases are out of the Austin-Travis County area, but officials here are prepping in case that changes. The closest area to Austin with an active case is Gillespie County, which includes Fredericksburg.
New World screwworms are parasitic flies that lay eggs in open wounds or body openings of animals. Once the eggs hatch, maggots can burrow and feed off an animal’s living tissue. This can lead to serious injury or death.
All mammals are at risk of screwworms. While the risk of screwworms in humans in the U.S. remains low, the flies can lay eggs in farm animals like cattle and goats, or domestic pets like dogs and cats.
Symptoms in people and animals include:
- Visible maggots in wounds, ears, nose, eyes, or mouth
- Wounds that worsen over several days
- Foul-smelling discharge from a wound
- Bleeding from open sores
- Fever
- Chills
Pets can be successfully treated for screwworms. If you think your animal has become infected with screwworms, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Officials with the U.S. Department of Agriculture said it plans to use drones equipped with artificial intelligence to monitor wildlife in the fight against screwworms. Additionally, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved generic tablets for treatment of the worms in dogs, puppies, cats, and kittens that weigh at least two pounds. The nitenpyran tablets are now available over the counter.
Local health officials say Austinites should take certain precautions if they plan to visit an area where screwworms have been reported:
- Keep open wounds clean and covered with a bandage.
- Sleep inside a room that has screens on its windows and doors.
- Wear pants, a hat, socks, and loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts to prevent mosquito bites. Use bug spray, too.
- Check any wounds for white fly eggs or maggots.
Contact your doctor immediately if you are experiencing any symptoms.
