A resident of Maryland has recently been diagnosed with a New World screwworm infection after visiting El Salvador, as reported by U.S. health authorities this week.
The screwworm primarily poses a threat to livestock, and cases in humans are quite unusual. This parasitic issue arises when female flies lay their eggs in fresh wounds. The larvae that hatch quickly begin to devour live tissue.
The result can be devastating, leading to significant tissue damage, bacterial infections, and, tragically, death if not addressed properly.
A spokesperson from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services mentioned this week that the “risk to public health in the United States” due to this case is considered “very low.”
It’s crucial to understand the details of this parasitic disease, especially considering recent outbreaks that have escalated in Central America and Mexico.
What are the diseases caused by New World screwworms?
Historical accounts indicate that the New World Screwworm, scientifically known as Cochliomyia hominivorax, has troubled American livestock since 1825.
Notably, in 2016, it caused significant fatalities among endangered species in the Florida Keys, raising alarms about potential invasions.
This pest became increasingly problematic
