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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Health
Hannah Rose Vineer and Livio Martins Costa Junior

What is the New World screwworm? The flesh-eating fly making a comeback

Cochliomyia hominivorax, the New World screwworm fly, is a species of parasitic fly that is well known for the way in which its larvae (maggots) eat the living tissue. - (Getty Images)

A flesh-eating parasitic fly is invading North and Central America. The consequences could be severe for the cattle industry, but this parasite is not picky – it will infest a wide range of hosts, including humans and their pets.

The “New World screwworm” (Cochliomyia hominivorax) was previously eradicated from these regions. Why is it returning and what can be done about it?

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