Comal County’s Public Health Department is closely monitoring Texas’ New World Screwworm (NWS) outbreak but has no immediate concerns about the parasitic fly, which lays eggs that turn into flesh-eating maggots in wounded animals.
County Public Information Officer Cary Zayas said the county is monitoring for any potential human cases of NWS infection, coordinating with animal health partners to reduce the risk of human exposure to NWS, and educating clinicians on identification, handling and laboratory testing.
County Animal Control Supervisor Mitchell Pratt said he completed training about NWS last week.
Eight cases have been reported in livestock in Edwards, Gillespie, La Salle and Zavala counties. A dog in New Mexico also was diagnosed with the condition.
These areas are considered livestock-containment zones and measures are being implemented to prevent the spread of flies.
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service said the state “is not in crisis mode but rather is entering a period of heightened awareness and coordinated response.”
Experts emphasize prevention, early detection and protocols.
Friday, Travis County Judge Andy Brown signed a disaster declaration that would make it easier for local officials to access state resources if NWS was reported in the Austin area.
In a statement Friday, Blanco County Emergency Management said it is actively following guidance from state and federal animal-health authorities.
If a case is identified, officials will support state and federal response efforts including animal-movement controls and working with affected landowners.
Guadalupe County Texas Emergency Management and Fire Marshal on Facebook urged residents to regularly inspect livestock and pets for wounds or unusual lesions.
“There is currently no reason for alarm in Guadalupe County, but awareness and early reporting are key to protecting our agricultural community, livestock industry, pets and wildlife.”
So far, all reported cases in the United States are in animals.
NWS is not spread person-to-person or from animals to people.
A fly has to lay eggs directly in an open wound, which is why good wound care is the best protection.
For more information visit AgriLife’s website.
Texas Animal Health Commission published an interactive map showing areas impacted by NWS. Click within a zone or designated area to see specific instructions on managing an outbreak.