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The US confirmed its first human case of the New World screwworm, a flesh-eating parasite, in a Maryland resident who recently traveled to El Salvador. The parasite, whose larvae feed on living tissue, poses a low risk to the public but is a major threat to livestock. The infestation is treatable but can be painful and even fatal if left untreated. The US eradicated the screwworm in the 1960s using sterile insects, but its recent spread from South America has prompted a $100 million federal response, including a new sterile fly production facility, to prevent a widespread outbreak and protect the cattle industry.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.