Maryland Resident Diagnosed with New World Screwworm: What Travelers Need to Know
On August 4, 2025, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed a rare case of New World screwworm in a Maryland resident who had recently traveled to El Salvador. This marks the first confirmed U.S. case tied to international travel in years. The patient has since recovered, and officials emphasized that no transmission occurred to others.
While uncommon in humans, the New World screwworm is a serious parasitic infection caused by a fly that lays eggs in open wounds or body openings such as the nose, mouth, or eyes. Once hatched, the larvae burrow into flesh, causing painful, non-healing sores with a foul odor.
What is New World Screwworm?
- A blue-green blowfly known scientifically as Cochliomyia hominivorax.
- Its name comes from the larvae (maggots) that appear to screw themselves into flesh.
- Once a major threat to U.S. cattle, it was eradicated domestically in the 1960s–70s through sterilized fly-release programs.
Risk to Travelers
According to the CDC, the infection poses very low risk to the general public and is not spread person-to-person. However, travelers are at higher risk if they:
- Visit rural or agricultural areas with livestock infestations.
- Sleep outdoors or in unscreened housing.
- Have open wounds or cuts while in endemic regions (Caribbean, Central and South America).
Symptoms to Watch For
- Painful, slow-healing wounds or sores.
- Visible maggots in wounds.
- Foul-smelling discharge from affected areas.
Treatment
- The only effective treatment is medical removal of larvae, often requiring surgery.
- Do not attempt self-removal of larvae, as incomplete removal may worsen infection.
Could This Reappear in the U.S.?
Although eradicated in North America decades ago, screwworms have been moving northward through Central America and Mexico. New genetic and sterilization programs are in place, but outbreaks remain possible, especially along the Texas-Mexico border.
Travel Health Tip from DTC
Before visiting regions where screwworm and other parasitic infections exist, schedule a consultation at Destinations Travel and Immunization Clinic. Our travel health experts provide:
- Personalized risk assessments.
- Guidance on wound care and prevention.
- Vaccinations and preventive medications.
Your safety abroad starts with preparation at home.
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Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied upon for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.
