It's back: The "New World Screwworm" parasite that eats human flesh has become a nightmare! It settled in the nasal cavity and ate living tissues: It was also seen in a 19-day-old baby!
The “New World screwworm,” thought to have been eradicated years ago, has resurfaced in South America . This parasite, which is spreading rapidly in Honduras, Mexico and surrounding countries, eats away at human and animal tissue. Cases reminiscent of science fiction movies are causing terror, especially in a hospital in San Pedro Sula, Honduras.
Reina Avila, 57, was hospitalized due to parasite larvae settling in her nose. Doctors examined the larvae with cell phone cameras and determined that they were eating away at living tissue in Avila’s nasal cavity and moving deeper into it. The larvae of the parasite move in the nasal cavity in the form of caterpillars and pose a life-threatening risk by gnawing at tissue. Experts say that the possibility of the maggots reaching the brain poses a serious threat to the patient’s life.
Hundreds of cases have been reported in Honduras in recent months, the youngest patient being a baby just 19 days old. The parasite usually targets people with open wounds or weakened immune systems. Doctors stress that early diagnosis increases the chance of survival, but without treatment it can be fatal.
According to experts, the return of the parasite is directly linked to illegal animal husbandry. Illegal cattle transport, which drug cartels use as a method of money laundering, plays a key role in the spread of these parasites. The larvae carried in the skin of unprotected cattle cross borders from Honduras to Mexico and even further north. Authorities say that if this situation is not brought under control, the epidemic could spread to wider regions.
Controlling the parasite requires strict biosecurity measures and international cooperation. However, the unregulated nature of illegal animal husbandry complicates these efforts. Doctors say that in infected individuals, the larvae must be surgically removed, but this must be done with caution. The situation has caused panic among the public and has also alarmed local health systems. Experts warn about keeping open wounds clean and practicing hygiene when in contact with animals.
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