Second Screwworm Case Confirmed in Yucatán

Mérida, Yucatán — The Yucatán Ministry of Health (SSY) confirmed on Monday the second case of myiasis caused by the screwworm fly (Cochliomyia hominivorax).

The patient is a 48-year-old man from Progreso. After receiving comprehensive care at the General Hospital Dr. Agustín O’Horán, he was discharged and will continue his treatment at home under outpatient monitoring by Sanitary Jurisdiction Number 1.

The ministry noted that the corresponding authorities were notified on August 21, and samples were sent to the State Public Health Laboratory (LESP) for analysis.

The follow-up is being managed by the SSY’s Directorate of Prevention and Health Protection and the Department of Epidemiological Surveillance. These groups immediately implemented prevention and control actions in the area in coordination with local health authorities and with the accompaniment of the National Service for Agrifood Health, Safety and Quality (Senasica), with the purpose of protecting public health.

The SSY calls on the population to keep wounds clean and covered with sterile dressings, maintain proper hygiene by washing with disinfectant solutions, avoid the accumulation of trash and organic waste that attracts insects, periodically check companion and farm animals for lesions, and use physical barriers such as mosquito nets and repellents to reduce contact with insects.

Furthermore, citizens are urged to go immediately to the nearest health unit upon any sign of infection to receive timely care.