Belize Confirms First Human Case of New World Screwworm

Belize has confirmed its first case of New World Screwworm (NWS) in humans. Minister of Health and Wellness Kevin Bernard told News 5 that the case is being closely monitored.

The patient is a farmer from Benque Viejo del Carmen.

The country first detected NWS on December 30, 2024, when the Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA) confirmed an infection in a six-month-old Brangus heifer on a farm in Crique Sarco, Toledo.

By March this year, BAHA had recorded 33 cases, which doubled to 63 in April. Since then, infections have surged to more than 160 cases nationwide, with reports stretching from Toledo in the south to Orange Walk in the north.

The parasite has also affected pets. As of June 14, over 50 dogs had been infected, with 20 new cases reported in just the past month.

By the end of July, BAHA warned both livestock farmers and pet owners after NWS was detected in wildlife. Two howler monkeys in the Cayo District tested positive.

Until now, no human cases had been reported.

The New World Screwworm is caused by the Cochliomyia hominivorax fly. Its larvae infest wounds and feed on living tissue, leading to severe, and in some cases life-threatening, complications if left untreated.

Health officials are urging the public to report any suspected cases.