Belize Confirms First Human Case of New World Screwworm

Belize has confirmed its first-ever human case of New World Screwworm (NWS), a parasitic infestation caused by the Cochliomyia hominivorax fly.

The case was detected in a farmer from Benque Viejo del Carmen, who is currently receiving medical treatment. Health authorities have not released further details on the patient’s condition but confirmed that immediate steps are being taken to provide care and contain the situation.

The New World Screwworm is a dangerous parasite whose larvae infest open wounds and feed on living tissue. The condition can cause severe pain, secondary infections, and if left untreated, may result in life-threatening complications.

While NWS has historically posed a major threat to livestock across the Americas, human infections remain rare. As a result, cases are closely monitored by health and agricultural authorities to prevent further spread.

Officials are urging the public, particularly those in rural areas, to seek immediate medical attention for unusual or worsening wounds and to take preventive measures such as proper wound care and the use of protective clothing in areas where the parasite is known to occur.