Screwworm fly surges in Mexico: over 500 human cases of flesh-eating larvae

The number of New World Screwworm (NWS) infections is rising rapidly in Mexico; the parasite's larvae feed on the living tissue of humans and animals. More than 500 human cases have already been confirmed in 2025–2026, and the latest research shows the rate of new infections is clearly accelerating. Scientists warn the epidemiological situation is deteriorating faster than before.