Maryland health officials have confirmed a case of the New World screwworm parasite in a person who recently traveled from Guatemala. The parasite, which attacks cattle and other warm-blooded animals, is spreading north from Central America and southern Mexico, Reuters reported.
The individual received treatment in Maryland. State veterinarians were notified last week, and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention deferred questions to the state, with officials citing communication through state channels.
According to Reuters, the case follows US government efforts to combat the pest, including plans announced last week to build a sterile fly facility in Texas.
