FIRST EVER human case of screwworm Myiasis found: Is it deadly? Causes, symptoms, treatment, more
The US public health agency said screwworm larvae cause extensive damage by tearing into the host's tissue with sharp mouth hooks. The wound can become larger and deeper as more larvae hatch and feed on living tissue.
Mexico has reported the first-ever human case of myiasis caused by a screwworm.
According to Mexico's Health Ministry, the case was detected in a 77-year-old woman from the municipality of Acacoyagua in the southern state of Chiapas. The authorities said she is in stable condition and receiving antibiotic treatment.
Myiasis is a parasitic infection that occurs when fly larvae, also known as maggots, infest open wounds and feed on living tissue.
About screwworm myiasis
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a New World screwworm (NWS) infestation happens when the larvae of the NWS fly (Cochliomyia hominivorax) burrow into the living tissue of warm-blooded animals. It’s most commonly seen in livestock, but it can also affect pets, birds, and even humans.
The screwworm flies are attracted to and lay their eggs on and in open wounds and mucous membranes.
The screwworm got its name due to the feeding behaviour of the larvae (maggots); they burrow (screw) into healthy tissue.
The US public health agency said screwworm larvae cause extensive damage by tearing into the host's tissue with sharp mouth hooks. The wound can become larger and deeper as more larvae hatch and feed on living tissue.
Screwworm Myiasis: Symptoms
Screwworm myiasis is not deadly. However, the CDC said that the infestation is very painful.
A human with screwworm myiasis may see maggots (larvae) around or in an open wound. They could also be in the individual's nose, eyes, or mouth.
Symptoms can also include:
- Unexplained skin lesions (wounds or sores) that do not heal.
- Skin wounds or sores that worsen over time.
- Painful skin wounds or sores.
- Bleeding from open sores.
- Feeling larvae movement within a skin wound or sore, nose, mouth, or eyes.
- Seeing maggots around or in open sores.
- A foul-smelling odour emanates from the site of the infestation.
- Secondary bacterial infections sometimes occur and may cause fever or chills.
Screwworm Myiasis: Who is at risk?
The CDC said the screwworm parasite is typically found in South America and the Caribbean.
People who travel to these areas, spend time among livestock animals, sleep outdoors, and have open wounds are at greater risk of contracting screwworm myiasis.
Screwworm Myiasis: Treatment
The CDC says the only way to treat screwworm myiasis is to remove the larvae from the infested tissue physically.
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