The first US case of a flesh-eating parasite, the New World screwworm, has been confirmed in a Maryland resident who recently traveled to El Salvador. The parasite, which feeds on live tissue, has caused a significant outbreak in Central America among livestock. While the risk to the general US public is low, the patient has recovered, and no further spread is evident. The USDA is taking preventative measures, including building a sterile fly production facility and strengthening border controls, to prevent the parasite from establishing itself in the US. The USDA's efforts also include using detector dogs and mounted patrols to monitor wildlife and imports.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.