First human case of flesh-eating screwworm parasite detected in the U.S.

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The U.S. has confirmed its first human case of the flesh‑eating New World screwworm parasite, found in a Maryland resident who recently traveled to El Salvador. Officials said the patient has recovered and there is no risk of transmission, with overall public health risk considered very low. The parasite, which devastates livestock and pets, has recently re‑emerged in Central America and Mexico after being eradicated decades ago. To combat its spread, the U.S. plans to release billions of sterilized flies over southern Texas and Mexico, though the program may take years to be fully operational, NBC News has reported. Texas officials warn an outbreak could cost the state’s agriculture industry billions.