According to the Epidemiological Surveillance Report for Week 29 from the Federal Ministry of Health, there are 31 cases of screwworm myiasis in humans in Chiapas. According to the records, the cases are concentrated in municipalities such as Tapachula, Huehuetán, Ocosingo, Escuintla, Villa Comaltitlán, Huixtla, Chilón, Mazatán, Mapastepec, Tonalá, Pichucalco, Suchiate, Chamula, and Yajalón, affecting people between 25 and 88 years of age, with older adults being the most vulnerable.
However, the Secretary of Health in Chiapas, Omar Gómez Cruz, indicated that 29 cases have been detected. It is worth mentioning that according to the federal report, the lesions have been located mainly on the head, lower limbs, trunk, nose, and genitals, associated with factors such as diabetes mellitus, alcoholism, neoplasia, severe malnutrition, chronic kidney disease, and, in several cases, social neglect or lack of basic hygiene.
Most of the patients have been discharged due to improvement; some are receiving outpatient treatment, and three remain hospitalized. In Campeche, an 86-year-old patient died as a result of complications from myiasis. The head of health in Chiapas called for strengthening prevention, hygiene, and timely medical care, especially for the most vulnerable populations.
How to combat screwworms?
Screwworms (myiasis) are caused by fly larvae that invade living tissue, generating painful and serious lesions. To combat it, it is essential to strengthen prevention and health control. The key is to maintain good personal and environmental hygiene, disinfect wounds immediately, and prevent unprotected exposure to the outdoors.
Medical treatment includes manual removal of larvae, the use of antibiotics to prevent secondary infections, and, in some cases, surgery. In rural or vulnerable areas, the use of mosquito nets, repellents, and protective clothing is recommended. Prevention also involves controlling the fly population by eliminating breeding sites, organic waste, and excrement. In livestock areas, vaccinating livestock and using traps is crucial.
What is screwworm myiasis?
Screwworm myiasis is an infection caused by the larvae (maggots) of certain species of flies, primarily Cochliomyia hominivorax, known as the New World screwworm fly. These larvae invade living tissue in humans and animals, feeding on the flesh and causing open, painful lesions and, in severe cases, necrosis.
Main characteristics:
Transmission: The adult fly lays its eggs in open wounds, mucous membranes, or moist areas of the body. Upon hatching, the larvae penetrate living tissue.
Symptoms:
Intense pain
Swelling and redness
Foul-smelling discharge
Visible presence of larvae in the wound
Affected areas:
Head
Nose
Genitals
Trunk
Extremities
In severe cases, internal cavities
Risk factors:
Untreated wounds
Conditions of poverty or neglect
Diseases such as diabetes, cancer, malnutrition, alcoholism
Poor hygiene
Treatment:
Consists of larvae removal, antibiotic use, and specialized wound care. In some cases, hospitalization is required.
Prevention:
Good hygiene, immediate medical attention for wounds, use of repellents, and fly control in the environment.
It is a serious but preventable disease, especially if early intervention is taken and access to health services is improved.
Source: msn
