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County official: screw worm not detected here; 32–33 cases reported elsewhere, mostly cattle
Summary
A county official updated commissioners that screw worm cases (32–33 reported) are currently not in Chambers County; she explained how the parasite spreads, what animal species have been affected, reporting steps for suspected cases and the sterile‑fly control approach.
A county agricultural/public‑health official told the Chambers County Commissioners Court the screw worm has not been detected in Chambers County but that 32–33 confirmed cases exist elsewhere, with the majority affecting cattle and a handful involving goats and one working (non‑household) dog.
The official explained the biology and transmission: adult flies lay eggs in open wounds — including dehorning or umbilical cords on young animals — and larvae develop in the wound. She advised residents who suspect an infected animal to contact a veterinarian or the Texas Animal Health office rather than move the animal, because transporting could spread larvae that might fall from trailers.
County staff described response steps: suspected cases should be confirmed by sampling and lab testing (regional labs were named as Kerrville and an Iowa lab as options for confirmation), and confirmed cases can trigger restricted‑movement orders (inspections and paperwork required for moving animals) rather than blanket quarantine. Staff also described the sterile‑fly suppression program (sterile male flies are released to reduce reproduction) and said Texas Animal Health will not deploy sterile flies until cases are confirmed.
Officials emphasized early detection: if caught early, infections are treatable and curable. They advised ranchers to learn local veterinarians who can prescribe appropriate medicines and to report suspected cases promptly. Commissioners thanked the presenter and asked no further action at this time.
