The United States has confirmed its first human case of New World screwworm, a parasitic fly whose larvae feed on living flesh, in a Maryland resident who had recently returned from El Salvador, where an outbreak is ongoing.
According to Reuters, the patient developed symptoms shortly after returning and was diagnosed on August 4, 2025, by the U.S. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
“Screwworm larvae literally eat living tissue, which can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening infections if not treated promptly,” said CDC Director, Dr. Rochelle Walensky.
“While this remains extremely rare in humans, it’s critical to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear after travel,” Walensky added.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) confirmed the case on August 24, 2025, stressing that officials are closely monitoring travel-related risks and working with Central American health authorities.
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“We are taking this very seriously and working to prevent any further spread,” HHS spokesperson, Dr. Anthony Fauci said.
Screwworm infections are more common in livestock, where outbreaks can have devastating effects.
“The larvae can burrow into live tissue, causing deep wounds that are difficult to treat,” said Dr. Jose Ortega, senior USDA veterinary official.
“For humans, it’s rare but extremely dangerous, and for cattle, it can lead to billions in losses,” he said.
In response, the USDA is constructing a sterile fly facility in Texas and has temporarily suspended cattle imports from Mexico as part of efforts to contain the pest. Mexico is also expanding its sterile fly operations, since Panama’s existing facility cannot meet the demands of the outbreak spreading north from Central America.
No animal cases have been reported in the U.S. this year, but health officials caution that even a single human infection is a warning sign.
“Early detection and treatment are essential to prevent serious consequences, both for public health and agriculture,” Walensky added.
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