7 publishers · first seen Thu, 29 Oct 2026 02:00 UTC · updated Fri, 30 Oct 2026 22:36 UTC
A dog in Cochise County, Arizona, has been confirmed as the first case of New World screwworm infestation in the state, marking the outbreak's expansion to a third U.S. state. The U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed the case, which is one of 71 confirmed animal cases since June, with 18 still active. The infestation was verified through scientific testing, and the dog is receiving veterinary care. The outbreak has affected livestock, wildlife, and pets, including five cases involving four dogs and one cat, with one wild elk in Texas also infected.
The USDA has restricted animal movement within a 20-km zone around the case and is releasing sterile flies to control the parasite. Officials urge animal owners to check for wounds, visible larvae, or foul-smelling discharge and to report suspected cases immediately. Though human infestations are rare, the parasite poses a significant threat to animals. The FDA has authorized medications like Capstar and nitenpyram for treatment and prevention in dogs and cats.
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