Cases of flesh-eating screwworms increase 53% in Mexico: Report
Summary
Mexico reported a 53% increase in cases of a flesh-eating parasite called screwworm in animals. The parasite is spreading north toward the United States, affecting livestock and causing economic losses.Key Facts
- There were 5,086 cases of screwworm in animals in Mexico as of August 17.
- The parasite mainly infects cattle, horses, sheep, and dogs, and there have been 41 human cases in Mexico.
- The first human case in the U.S. was reported in Maryland in a person who traveled from El Salvador.
- Screwworm infestations are difficult to treat and prevent, as they begin with flies laying eggs on warm-blooded animals.
- Mexico and the U.S. are building facilities to produce sterilized flies to help control the screwworm population.
- Infestations have caused significant economic losses for Mexican cattle exports, valued at $1.3 billion in the past year.
- The U.S. Department of Agriculture warned that screwworm could threaten $100 billion in economic activity if not managed.
- The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services approved emergency veterinary drugs to help prevent the spread.
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