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Human Deaths Linked to Parasitic Fly in Mexico
11 Aug
Summary
- Parasitic fly maggots have infested hundreds of people in Mexico since 2025.
- At least one person likely died from a screwworm fly infestation.
- The screwworm fly has also reappeared in the United States, posing a risk.
The parasitic New World screwworm fly has made a deadly comeback, now posing a direct threat to human health in Mexico. Since its reemergence, hundreds of residents have suffered infestations by the fly's larvae, with at least one fatality linked to the parasite.
The screwworm fly's maggots feed on living flesh, burrowing into hosts via open wounds. This can cause severe tissue damage and secondary infections. Historically, eradication programs pushed the fly back significantly, but recent years have seen its return northwards.
Between April 2025 and March 2026, Mexico recorded 204 human screwworm cases, primarily on lower limbs, with six deaths following infestation. More recent data indicates over 500 human cases since its reappearance.
This parasitic fly has now officially returned to the U.S., with 45 detected cases in Texas and New Mexico as of August 9, 2026. While the risk to the U.S. public is currently considered low, officials are implementing sterile male fly releases to contain the spread.
Experts stress the need for proactive surveillance and control measures across human, animal, and agricultural sectors to manage the northward expansion of this public health concern.
