The U.S. confirms its first human case of New World screwworm. What is it?
Summary
The United States reported its first human case of New World screwworm infection. This parasite, usually found in South America and the Caribbean, infests animals but can also affect humans, though this is rare. The U.S. confirmed the infection in a person who had traveled to El Salvador.Key Facts
- The New World screwworm is a flesh-eating parasite affecting primarily livestock.
- Humans can get infected, but these cases are rare and can be deadly if untreated.
- The case in the U.S. was confirmed in a patient who had traveled to El Salvador.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Maryland health officials confirmed the case.
- Infection risk to the public in the U.S. is currently considered very low.
- Screwworms lay eggs in the wounds of living animals; larvae eat the host's tissue.
- This parasite is not contagious like a virus; it requires direct contact with eggs laid by the fly.
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