Screwworm Detected in Pima County Horse

USDA had reported 128 confirmed New World screwworm cases in domestic animals across Texas, New Mexico and Arizona. Arizona’s seventh case was found in a domesticated horse near Tucson, the first reported in Pima County; the horse had no known travel history, and Arizona’s affected counties rose to four. Officials established a mandatory 12.4-mile infested zone, restricting animal movement unless directed by state veterinary authorities. Officials say the risk to people is low and urge residents to keep wounds clean and covered and seek care for wounds that are not healing; animal owners should check animals regularly and report suspected cases. Pima Animal Care Center is giving shelter dogs preventative medication, while state and federal agencies are using movement restrictions and sterile-fly releases to contain the parasite; a virtual public meeting was also scheduled.