Have a suspected myiasis case? Christopher Lee, DVM, MPH, DACVPM, explains what to do, in this Vet Watch update.
In this Vet Watch update, Christopher Lee, DVM, MPH, DACVPM, discusses the potential arrival of New World screwworm in the US this year and explains what veterinarians should do if they suspect a myiasis case. He also advises against sending non-relevant samples like compost maggots to laboratories, which are already overwhelmed.
Previously on Vet Watch
Christopher Lee, DVM, MPH, DACVPM: This is a Vet Watch update at dvm360. I’m Christopher Lee.
Now, if you’ve watched my videos, you know that I talk a lot about the New World screwworm, Cochliomyia hominivorax. Obsession? Well, I mean, maybe a little, but mostly because it’s poised to land in the US this year.
So, what should you actually send to labs like [National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL)]? Maggots in your compost or manure? No.
Worms or wormy things your clients say fell off their pet? No.
Labs are swamped with samples. So, here’s the rule of thumb: if it isn’t feeding on flesh— that is, true myiasis—it’s almost certainly not screwworm. If you have a myiasis case and are concerned, then you have 2 options:
Article: Screwworms: when the larvae don't care about boundaries
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