Myiasis Outbreak in Chiapas: Authorities Respond
Tapachula – May 17, 2024 – Authorities in Chiapas, Mexico, are battling a concerning myiasis outbreak, a parasitic infestation caused by screwworm larvae. the situation involves increasing cases among both humans and animals, particularly in mapstepec, prompting swift action from health officials. The infestation has rapidly spread, with several cases confirmed among humans and livestock, requiring immediate attention from the regional authorities.
Myiasis Outbreak in Chiapas, Mexico: authorities Respond to Rising Cases
Chiapas, Mexico – Health officials in the southern Mexican state of Chiapas are grappling with an increasing number of myiasis cases, a parasitic infestation caused by screwworm larvae. The latest reports confirm a concerning spread among both humans and animals, prompting urgent calls for heightened preventative measures.
The Situation in Chiapas
Authorities confirmed two new human cases of myiasis in the municipality of Mapstepec, bringing the total number of confirmed human infections in the country to four. frida Viridiana coutiño Jiménez,a public health commissioner in Mapstepec,reported that the two new cases involve older adults residing in the ejido of Altamira.
Did You Know?
Myiasis, caused by the larvae of the screwworm fly (Cochliomyia hominivorax), was once a major livestock pest in the United States. A successful eradication program using sterile insect technique eliminated it by the late 20th century.
Coutiño told local media,two positive cases were already found in the human being. And in animals, backyard birds, cattle, horses and sheep, there were also several cases.
The affected individuals are currently hospitalized in Tapachula, the capital of Chiapas, although official reports from state or federal secretariats are pending.
Animal Infections and Economic Impact
The outbreak is not limited to humans. José Manuel Muria Ponce, deputy director of Agricultural Development of Mapstepec, warned that the disease is spreading in a “critical” way among various animal populations, including horses, sheep, goats, and chickens.
Chiapas accounts for 60% of all animal cases in Mexico, with 900 out of 1,500 cases registered nationwide, according to the National Service of Health, Safety and Agrifood Quality (Senasica).
Pro Tip:
Livestock owners should regularly inspect their animals for any signs of wounds or lesions and promptly treat them to prevent screwworm infestation. Report any suspected cases to local agricultural authorities immediately.
Eradication Efforts and Prevention
In response to the escalating crisis, authorities have initiated measures to control the screwworm population. Sterile flies liberations began to be made to lower the incidence
in Tapachula, according to Muria Ponce. This technique, which involves releasing sterile male flies to disrupt the reproductive cycle of the screwworm, was previously used successfully in 1985 to combat a similar outbreak.
The public is urged to report any signs of the disease in livestock without fear of quarantine.The governor has called on citizens to take extreme precautions and to not miss any alert sign of the disease,
emphasizing that It is indeed something real that is being lived here in Mapstepec (…) and therefore I want preventive measures to take.
Background on Myiasis
Myiasis, specifically caused by the screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax), is a parasitic infestation where larvae feed on the living tissue of mammals. The larvae infest deep within tissues, causing severe injuries, organ dysfunction, and potentially death in severe cases.
Symptoms include fever, depression, and loss of appetite, often associated with pre-existing skin wounds. The first human case in this outbreak was reported on April 18 in Acacoyagua, involving a 77-year-old woman who has as recovered. A second case was confirmed on May 8 in Tuzantlán, affecting a 50-year-old man who contracted the infection through a dog bite.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is myiasis? Myiasis is a parasitic infestation caused by fly larvae feeding on living tissue.
- What causes myiasis? It is indeed caused by the larvae of the screwworm fly, cochliomyia hominivorax.
- What are the symptoms of myiasis? Symptoms include fever, depression, and loss of appetite, often associated with skin wounds.
- How can myiasis be prevented? Preventative measures include keeping wounds clean, controlling fly populations, and reporting suspected cases in animals.
