Screwworms reemerge in US, posing livestock and human risk

Flesh-eating screwworm flies have reappeared in the United States, with five cases reported recently, primarily affecting calves in Texas. While the main concern is the significant financial threat to the cattle industry, estimated at billions of dollars annually, humans are also at risk. Although human infections are rare, they can be severe, leading to painful wounds that can progress to deeper tissues, potentially causing secondary infections, sepsis, and even mortality. The flies lay eggs in wounds or body openings, and the larvae burrow into living flesh, posing a serious health concern.