15/05/2026
Cutaneous myiasis (fly strike / maggot wound) in sheep is an infestation of skin and wounds by fly larvae (maggots), commonly caused by blowflies. It is common in warm, humid conditions and around dirty wool, wounds, urine-soiled areas, or foot lesions.
Common Predisposing Causes
* Open wounds from shearing, fighting, castration, docking
* Diarrhoea causing f***l soiling
* Urine staining around tail
* Foot rot wounds
* Neglected abscesses
* Wet fleece and poor hygiene
Clinical Signs
* Restlessness, biting or rubbing body
* Foul-smelling wound
* Wool discoloration and moist skin
* Visible maggots in skin
* Depression, anorexia
* Fever in severe cases
* Toxemia and weakness if advanced
Common Sites
* Breech/tail region
* Neck and shoulders
* Feet
* Wounds anywhere on body
Treatment Protocol
1. Clip and Clean
* Clip wool widely around affected area
* Remove all maggots manually using forceps
* Flush wound with:
* Dilute povidone iodine
* Normal saline
* Chlorhexidine solution
2. Apply Larvicidal/Topical Medication
Commonly used:
* Turpentine oil (carefully, avoid excess)
* Negasunt powder
* Topicure spray
* Himax ointment
* Cypermethrin spray (diluted as directed)
3. Systemic Antibiotics
If deep wound, fever, cellulitis or toxemia present:
* Oxytetracycline long acting: 20 mg/kg IM, repeat after 72 hrs
OR
* Ceftriaxone 20–25 mg/kg IM/IV
4. Anti-inflammatory
* Meloxicam 0.5 mg/kg IM/SC for pain and inflammation
5. Supportive Care
* Fluid therapy if dehydrated
* Vitamin B-complex
* Good nutrition and clean dry housing
Prevention
* Regular shearing and crutching
* Control diarrhoea and foot rot
* Proper wound management
* Fly control with insecticide dips/sprays
* Maintain dry bedding and hygiene
Prognosis
* Good if treated early
* Poor in neglected cases with toxemia or extensive tissue destruction
Field Tip
After maggot removal, daily wound dressing for 3–5 days is very important because remaining larvae can reappear from deeper tissue.