A flesh-eating parasite is spreading across Arizona, and state officials are ramping up their response as new cases continue to emerge. Livestock owners, pet owners, and outdoor enthusiasts across the state need to know what to watch for — and what to do if they spot signs of an infestation.
The Arizona Department of Agriculture and the state veterinarian have scheduled a virtual public meeting for Monday evening to answer questions and address growing concerns about the New World screwworm — a parasitic fly whose larvae burrow into and feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded mammals. The meeting comes after a seventh confirmed case was identified Friday in a horse near Tucson, signaling that the parasite’s reach is expanding.
According to the USDA, New World screwworm infestations cause severe, painful wounds in animals. Left untreated, an infected animal can die within just 10 days. In rare cases, humans can also be affected.
For the full picture of where cases have been confirmed and what containment efforts are underway, the AZDA is directing the public to its website at agriculture.az.gov. An infestation zones map is also available to help residents understand which areas have been affected.
What You Should Watch For — and How to Report It
Arizona officials are asking anyone who works with or cares for animals — including livestock owners and pet owners — to be on high alert. If you notice unusual wounds, maggots in tissue, or animals behaving as though they are in significant pain, those may be signs of a screwworm infestation.
Suspected cases involving livestock or pets should be reported to the Arizona Department of Agriculture immediately by emailing [email protected] or by calling 602-542-4293.
Hunters, hikers, and other outdoor recreationists are also being asked to keep an eye out for wounded or visibly sickened wildlife. Any suspected wildlife cases should be directed to the Arizona Game and Fish Department at 623-236-7201.
The situation is also affecting Arizonans who travel with their animals. Pet owners leaving the state may face travel restrictions tied to the ongoing screwworm concerns, adding another layer of urgency for residents to stay informed. More coverage on this and related topics can be found through the Fronteras Desk and science reporting from KJZZ, with stories from reporters including Lindsey C. Riley and Katherine Davis-Young.
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