USDA Confirms New World Screwworm Case in Arizona Dog

(NAFB.com) USDA has confirmed Arizona s first case of New World screwworm, raising concerns about the parasite s potential spread into American livestock herds. USDA s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service announced Wednesday that laboratory testing confirmed the parasite in a dog in Cochise County, near the Mexican border. The detection makes Arizona the third state to report an animal infection, following cases in Texas and New Mexico, according to ABC News. Federal and state officials have established a 20-kilometer infested zone around the detection site, implemented animal movement controls and increased surveillance and trapping. Sterile flies are also being released to help control the pest. New World screwworm larvae feed on living tissue, causing serious wounds in livestock, wildlife and pets. USDA is urging producers to inspect animals daily and immediately report suspicious wounds or infestations to veterinarians or animal health authorities.