Human cases of New World screwworm infestation in Mexico have exceeded 500 since the parasite reinvaded in 2024, with a recent study confirming an accelerating infestation rate and at least six deaths. The outbreak follows the 2022 breach of the biological barrier in the Darién Gap, reversing decades of eradication efforts that previously eliminated the fly from the region.
Background
The New World screwworm was successfully eradicated from Mexico and the US through sterile insect technique programs, with Mexico declaring eradication in 2003. The parasite re-emerged after the biological barrier in the Darién Gap was breached in 2022, allowing the flies to migrate north from South America.
- Source
- Ars Technica
- Published
- Aug 8, 2026 at 05:09 AM
- Score
- 7.0 / 10