Texas reports first equine infection of New World screwworm on ranch horse
The flesh-eating parasite had been largely eradicated, but now authorities are racing to contain an outbreak A horse in southern Texas has been infected with the New World screwworm, marking the first US equine infection as health authorities race to contain an outbreak of the flesh-eating parasite. The pest was discovered on the hind limb of a working ranch horse in Presidio county, according to…
Texas authorities are actively working to contain a rare equine screwworm infection, marking the first case of this flesh-eating parasite infecting a horse within the United States. The insect, which had been largely eradicated, was discovered on a ranch horse in southern Texas, specifically in Presidio County. The Texas Animal Health Commission has since restricted the movement of warm-blooded animals in several affected counties to prevent the spread of the screwworm.
The pest, a fly larva that nests in open wounds, can cause severe injury or even death in animals. The Texas Equestrian Foundation advised horse owners to regularly inspect their animals for signs of infection and take preventative measures such as using fly control products and limiting fly exposure. The outbreak, which has primarily affected Texas, has raised concerns about potential economic damage to the state's ranching industry.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott declared a disaster on June 1st to allocate state resources to combat the screwworm presence.
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