The state of Veracruz has the highest number of screwworm infections in humans in 2026, according to the Epidemiological Bulletin of the National Epidemiological Surveillance System.
According to the most recent report, corresponding to week 22 of the year, at least 69 cases have been registered in the state, representing more than 23 percent of the national total of people affected by this pest.
In the national statistics, Veracruz is followed by Chiapas, with 49 cases, and Oaxaca, with 32, considerably lower figures compared to Veracruz.
The increase is significant when compared to the previous year, when the Ministry of Health reported only one case in Veracruz out of a total of 117 registered nationwide in 2025.
Despite leading the list of infections, Veracruz has not reported any human deaths from this cause so far this year. In contrast, Oaxaca and Yucatán have each registered one death associated with this infection.
What is screwworm?
The disease is caused by the larvae of the fly Cochliomyia hominivorax, which lays its eggs in open wounds or body cavities, potentially causing serious infections in both humans and animals.
Given this situation, health authorities have urged the public to maintain hygiene measures, treat any wounds immediately, and seek medical attention if infection is suspected.
In addition to human cases, Veracruz also ranks among the states with the highest number of livestock infections, occupying third place nationally with 4,131 accumulated cases in 2026.
In this category, the state is behind Chiapas and Oaxaca, but ahead of Yucatán and Puebla.
Reports indicate that the municipalities in southern Veracruz have the highest incidence of cases, including Uxpanapa, Ozuluama, San Andrés Tuxtla, Las Choapas, and Tierra Blanca.
Authorities are maintaining active epidemiological surveillance and are urging the public to reinforce preventive measures for both humans and livestock.
Source: elhorizonte
