Source: Texas Animal Health Commission

The USDA has confirmed New World screwworm in a stray dog in Homestead, Florida. This is the first time screwworms have been found on Florida’s mainland in decades.

The screwworm eradication program has been underway in Florida since October 2016. The USDA, Florida Department of Agriculture and partnering agencies will continue to modify the eradication program as needed in order to eradicate the screwworm. 

To learn more information regarding the detection dates and locations of the New World screwworm in Florida, click or tap here.

New World screwworms are fly larvae, also known as maggots, that can infest livestock and other warm-blooded animals, including people. Screwworms can enter wounds and other as body orifices to feed on living tissue. If untreated, screwworm infestations can be fatal.

The TAHC would like to remind all veterinarians, producers and stakeholders to report any animal suspected to be infested with screwworms by calling the TAHC at 1-800-550-8242 or contacting the nearest TAHC Region Office.  

Veterinarians can  submit collected samples to the State-Federal Laboratory in Austin, 8200 Cameron Road Suite A186, Austin, TX 78754; 512-832-6580; or the National Veterinary Service Laboratories in Ames, Iowa at https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/lab-info-services.