While cattle producers remain on high alert following the June confirmation of New World screwworm in Texas, Missouri state veterinarian Steve Strubberg said this pest poses a serious threat to far more than just beef herds.
“All warm-blooded animals, certainly sheep and goats, are susceptible,” he explained.
The concern extends across multiple species, each presenting unique challenges for detection and treatment.
Livestock at risk
Sheep and goats face vulnerability due to their tendency to sustain small wounds, Strubberg said.
Wool sheep have an additional challenge — infestations may remain hidden beneath their fleece until the condition becomes severe.
“The wool sheep sometimes you might not see it as early,” Strubberg added, “so that can be a little bit of a risk there.”
Strubberg said horse owners should also be on alert for NWS. Earlier this year, a U.S. port reported that a horse had a mild infestation, which was detected and treated.
Companion animals in danger
Pets are a real risk, Strubberg warned.
“People travel from all these infested areas all the time with their pets, and if they have a wound, they’re at risk,” he said.
Pet owners should inspect animals. Any open wound requires close monitoring and timely response. Fortunately, effective treatments exist.
And while many owners may look to only those animals indoors, free-roaming dogs and cats can be highly susceptible because they are not closely checked.
Wildlife under threat
Strubberg said the impact of NWS on wildlife could be substantial.
Recent history provides one example in the Florida Keys, with a small herd of endangered key deer.
“It really devastated the deer population down there,” Strubberg recalled.
Prime infection occurs when deer become injured through fighting or crossing fences, which results in cuts or scrapes. Also, fawns are vulnerable to navel infections during birthing seasons.
The Missouri Department of Conservation and USDA Wildlife Services are coordinating response efforts, relying on hunters, wildlife observers and trail cameras across the state for early detection.
Reporting and resources
Livestock or pet owners should contact their local veterinarian or the Missouri Department of Agriculture Animal Health Department at 573-751-3377 if they suspect NWS.
Wildlife cases should be reported to the Missouri Department of Conservation at 573-522-0142 or online.
For more information, visit agriculture.mo.gov or screwworm.gov.