First US Human New World Screwworm Case Linked El Salvador Travel

In a rare and unprecedented development, a human case of New World screwworm infestation has been confirmed in Maryland, linked to recent travel from El Salvador, where ongoing outbreaks have raised concerns. The New World screwworm is a parasitic fly whose larvae burrow into living flesh, primarily affecting livestock but occasionally humans, causing serious tissue damage. Although the parasite was largely eradicated from the U.S. by the 1970s through sterile insect release programs, recent outbreaks in Central America and Mexico have prompted renewed vigilance and preventive measures, including plans for new sterile fly production facilities in Texas and Mexico. U.S. health officials emphasize that the screwworm does not spread from person to person and that the public health risk remains very low. Agricultural authorities are actively monitoring livestock and have imposed import restrictions to prevent the parasite's spread into the U.S. cattle industry. The situation underscores ongoing collaboration between the CDC, USDA, and state health departments to contain the infestation and protect both public health and agriculture.