Flesh-eating parasite case detected in US traveler returning from Central America

Flesh-eating parasite case detected in US traveler returning from Central America

Parasitic fly larvae feeds on live flesh and can be fatal if untreated

The first travel-associated human case of screwworm infection was detected in Maryland after the patient returned from El Salvador. (iStock)

New World screwworm, also known as myiasis, is a parasitic infestation of fly larvae that feeds on live flesh. (USDA)

Livestock such as cattle, sheep and goats are highly vulnerable to myiasis. (iStock)