Warbles (Cuterebra botfly larvae)
Warbles is a term that describes bumps under the skin that are caused by infection with fly larvae. In wild mammals, this condition involves the larvae of the botfly, Cuterebra sp. Cuterebra warbles are most commonly seen in squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits and other small mammals.
TRANSMISSION
Female botflies lay their eggs along mammal paths and at entrances to small mammal burrows. When the eggs hatch, the fly larvae enter the mammal through the nose, mouth or a wound in the skin. The larvae then travel to an area of the body just under the skin to complete development.
CLINICAL SIGNS
Wild mammals infected with warble will have noticeable bumps or bumps under the skin. There may be an opening caused by the larva before leaving the body. Depending on the part of the body affected, the movement of the wild mammal may be hindered. Generally, infected individuals recover after the botfly larva emerges from the under the skin and falls off. Occasionally, a secondary bacterial infection may occur at the site of the skin wound created by the emerging larva.
DISEASE MANAGEMENT
This parasite rarely has a significant effect on populations and affected individuals usually recover.
PUBLIC HEALTH
There is no public health concern with this parasite.