EXPLICIT IMAGES: Local vet discusses mango fly
FOURWAYS – The Fourways Review spoke to local vet Dr Robyn Bester about the recent outbreak of mango fly in the area to understand the situation.
In mid-April, the Fourways Review reported that a case of mango fly had been confirmed in the Fourways area after two pet Labradors were found to be infected.
Although it has also been observed in humans, the majority of reported cases have occurred in animals. We spoke to a local vet to find out more about these cases.
“We saw six cases come in during the month of April,” explained Dr Robyn Bester, a vet at Fourways Veterinary Hospital in Pineslopes. “The majority of these were infections in dogs, but we did have one cat come in as well.”
Bester explained that the animals most likely to contract the insects were dogs and rats, and that Mango Fly usually presents in warmer climates such as the Lowveld and that it was rare to see it in Johannesburg.
“The fly deposits eggs in the soil, and humans or animals pick them up from there. The boil-like marks are quite sore, and we often see animals that have quite a number [of the sores], sometimes 10 or 20 marks on one animal. They are no deeper than the skin, and are not dangerous.”
In terms of what to look for, Bester said the size of the boil-like sores can vary depending on the stage of development, as well as the response of the animal’s body to the infection.
“If you suspect mango worms, or aren’t sure, I’d recommend taking your pet to the vet just in case.”
Treatment includes squeezing out the worm-like larvae once they are mature enough, and then putting the animal on a course of antibiotics to prevent potential infection.
“You can’t get mango fly straight from your dog,” Bester wanted residents to know. “You either get it from contaminated soil or if the female has laid eggs on your washing. If your dog has it, you should be extra careful and wear shoes while outside. You also need to either tumble dry or iron your clothes after washing.”
Bester added that there are ways to protect yourself:
- Keep your pet’s tick and flea treatment up to date. There is some anecdotal evidence that this keeps mango fly at bay, and will also mean that you do not mistake mango fly for tick or flea bites
- Keep your garden clean, as mango fly females like to lay their eggs in dirt that contains faeces
- Tumble-dry all clothes for about 10 minutes at a hot temperature as this will kill any eggs that are on the clothing. If you don’t have access to a tumble dryer, ironing your garments is also effective.
“Most people believe winter will help, as the cold will kill the flies.”
Details: www.fourwaysvet.co.za
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