Three Human Cases of Screwworm Infestation Confirmed in Mexico

Muscat: Health authorities in the Mexican state of Sinaloa have confirmed three human cases of screwworm parasite infestation in distinct areas across the state, coinciding with the detection of 109 positive cases in livestock and other animals. According to Oman News Agency, public health and veterinary services are continuing to implement a One Health approach to monitor the situation and curb the transmission of the parasite, particularly in rural zones. Daniel Fabián Sosa Tapia, coordinator of the Sinaloa Commission for the Prevention of Foot-and-Mouth Disease and Exotic Animal Diseases, reported that the human cases were recorded in the municipalities of Ahome, Villa Unión, and El Rosario. He noted that the affected individuals are receiving appropriate medical care, while health authorities maintain active surveillance and monitoring operations in the affected areas. The screwworm, also known as the New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax), is the larval stage of a fly that deposits its eggs in o r near open wounds. Upon hatching, the larvae begin feeding on living tissue, which can result in severe tissue damage at the site of infestation if the infection is not promptly detected and treated. Although the parasite primarily affects animals, it can be transmitted to humans through open wounds, with the risk of complications increasing proportionally to the duration of undetected infestation. The human cases have emerged alongside ongoing efforts to control the parasite within the state's livestock sector, where Sinaloa has registered 109 animal-positive cases, some of which remain active and are currently undergoing treatment and observation.