THATCHER — Desert Cross Veterinary Hospital announced Tuesday there is a suspected case of New World Screwworm in Graham County.
The announcement was made on the hospital’s social media.
“Currently our suspected case is in a dog from Thatcher by the middle school. If you live in that area, please keep a close eye on your animals. If you have animals, actually look at them, run your hands over them, pay attention to what is going on and do not ignore any wounds,” hospital officials posted.
Hospital officials also posted a listed of prescribed medications that will prevent screwworm infestation in dogs and cats. They are:
- NexGard (afoxolaner): Authorized via EUA for treating NWS infestations in dogs.
- Credelio (lotilaner): Authorized via EUA for treating NWS infestations in dogs and puppies.
- Simparica TRIO
Bravecto is not officially approved in dogs and cats but it is in cattle and will work for three months.
There is also an over-the-counter option, Capstar/Generic Nitenpyram tablets, which are authorized for the prevention and treatment of NWS in dogs weighing two pounds or more and at least 4 weeks old. It requires a second dose six hours after the first.
Arizona Farm Bureau said New World Screwworm is a flesh-eating parasite that can seriously harm and kill livestock, wildlife, and pets. However, it is treatable when caught early.
The first discovery of New World Screwworm in Arizona was a confirmed case involving a canine in Cochise County on Oct. 28.
