Screwworms in US: Human risk is low—but they can burrow through your skull
Summary
Screwworm flies, which eat living flesh, have reappeared in the US after being eradicated decades ago. Recent cases have been found mostly in Texas livestock, with one reported in a dog; humans can also be affected, though such cases are rare but serious.Key Facts
- Screwworm flies lay eggs in wounds of warm-blooded animals; their larvae eat living flesh.
- Three new cases were reported by the USDA, making a total of five recent infections in the US.
- Four cases were in calves in Texas; one case was in a dog with travel history to Mexico.
- Screwworm was eradicated in the US Southwest by 1966 using sterile male fly releases.
- The flies have been spreading northward from Central America since around 2022.
- Screwworm infestations in humans can cause large, painful wounds that may get infected or even be fatal.
- If the screwworms spread widely again, they could cause heavy financial losses to the Texas cattle industry.
- Preventing infestations requires constant efforts because the flies reproduce quickly and their larvae damage muscle, cartilage, and bone.
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