Flesh-Eating Screwworms in Mexico: Human Cases Top 500

Officials say human cases of New World screwworm—flesh-feeding parasitic blowflies—have surpassed 500 in Mexico. The outbreak is linked to infestations that start in wounds, where larvae can feed on living tissue and cause severe, sometimes life-threatening infections if not treated quickly. Health guidance emphasizes keeping open wounds clean and covered, using insect repellent, and seeking urgent medical care if maggots are seen or a wound becomes painful or foul-smelling.