The state of Campeche has confirmed its second case of myiasis caused by the cattle screwworm in humans, a development that has sparked concerns among authorities and ranchers. The new case was detected in a rural community of Ciudad del Carmen, where an individual with immunosuppression comorbidities is being treated.
According to Josefa Castillo Avendaño, head of the Campeche State Health Secretariat, the first case of myiasis caused by the fly Cochliomyia hominivorax was detected in the municipality of Candelaria. The 86-year-old woman, who has now stabilized, is believed to have contracted the disease due to neglect.
Myiasis, a condition characterized by an invasion of animals or humans by larvae of the cattle screwworm, poses significant health risks. Castillo Avendaño emphasized that these insects feed on human tissue, compounding the issue. To combat this problem, the State Health Secretariat has trained 180 health professionals to handle cases and coordinate with municipal authorities to detect and address any health issues.
The situation is further complicated by the recent outbreak of myiasis in Campeche. In a span of just one week, 11 new cases were confirmed, including eight cattle, two horses, and one pig, across six key municipalities. The World Organization for Animal Health (WHO) has reported that these cases have raised concerns among ranchers and authorities.
To mitigate this issue, the state has implemented an epidemiological fence to reduce the risk of health problems associated with myiasis. Castillo Avendaño stressed that it is essential to care for individuals affected by the disease, including washing and treating any wounds. In some instances, surgical larvation may be necessary to address the infestation.
The ongoing crisis has prompted authorities to coordinate with federal agencies, including the National Service of Health, Safety, and Agri-Food Quality (SENASICA) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (SADER), to combat the spread of myiasis.
Source: Campeche Hoy
