Quintana Roo Reports 14 Human Cases of Screwworm Infestation in 2026

Cancún, Quintana Roo — The screwworm infestation continues to spread across southeastern Mexico, with Quintana Roo reporting 14 confirmed human cases of myiasis so far in 2026, according to the federal Health Department.

The figure places the state among the seven with the highest incidence of the disease this year, the department’s Epidemiological Surveillance Bulletin for Week 23 shows. Quintana Roo accounts for 4.3% of the 329 infections reported nationwide. One new case was confirmed in the state in the latest week.

Myiasis is an infestation caused by larvae of the Cochliomyia hominivorax fly, known as the screwworm. The insect deposits eggs in open wounds or body cavities; when they hatch, the larvae feed on living tissue, causing lesions that can worsen rapidly without medical attention.

Although Quintana Roo has recorded no deaths from the disease, the national report confirms two fatalities in 2026 — one in Oaxaca and one in Yucatán. Veracruz leads the country with 78 cases, followed by Chiapas with 52 and Oaxaca with 38.

Specialists warn that key symptoms include intense pain, swelling, foul-smelling discharge, a sensation of movement in the wound, and visible larvae. If not treated promptly, myiasis can lead to tissue destruction, severe infections, and may require surgery. Authorities urge people to keep wounds clean and seek immediate medical attention if they suspect an infestation.