Veterinary manager briefs commission on screwworm risk and treatment protocols

Dr. Debbie Elliott, veterinary services manager at Austin Animal Center, briefed the commission on New World screwworm and the shelter’s response plan.

Elliott explained the fly (Chrysomya hominivorax) lifecycle and that females seek fresh wounds to lay eggs; larvae hatch within 12–14 hours and can feed for 5–7 days, producing rapid tissue damage. She said early veterinary treatment (CapStar to begin expelling larvae and approved products such as NexGard Combo) is effective and that some newer products (Simparica, Bravecto) have emerging evidence of effectiveness in certain formulations. Elliott said the condition is reportable and that vet services and animal-protection officers have received training; she asked the public to bring suspect animals for prompt care.

Commissioners asked whether APOs and field staff had received the training; Elliott confirmed vet services staff had training and said APOs had received a related briefing. Commissioners also discussed treatment availability and the need to ensure community TNR actors and foster networks receive guidance and necessary product when in active trapping/renewal operations.

No regulatory action was taken; the briefing served as an informational update and to highlight readiness steps for the shelter and field teams.