Home / Health / Woman sneezes out live sheep bot fly larvae
Woman sneezes out live sheep bot fly larvae
9 Apr
Summary
- A Greek woman expelled nearly one-inch-long worms from her nose.
- The creatures were identified as baby sheep bot flies, a rare human parasite.
- Her unusual nasal structure aided the larvae's survival and growth.
A 58-year-old Greek woman recently underwent a disturbing ordeal after expelling nearly one-inch-long worms from her nose. The incident began with flies swarming her face while she worked outdoors near sheep. This was followed by sinus pain and severe coughing over several weeks.
An ENT specialist removed 10 larvae and a pupa, identified as baby sheep bot flies (Oestrus ovis), from her nasal sinuses. This parasite typically inhabits sheep and goats, with human infections being exceptionally rare.
Doctors theorize that the woman's significantly deviated nasal septum played a crucial role. This anatomical anomaly likely provided a protected environment, allowing the larvae to survive and develop beyond the usual early stages seen in humans.
Following surgical removal and treatment with nasal decongestants, the woman made a complete recovery. While sheep bot fly infestations in human noses remain rare, medical professionals note that nasal abnormalities or weakened immunity can increase the risk of larval survival.
