what are screw worms

Screw worms, specifically the New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax), are a species of parasitic flies whose larvae (maggots) feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals including livestock, wildlife, and sometimes humans. The female fly lays eggs in fresh wounds or body openings of animals. When the eggs hatch, the larvae burrow into the wound and consume the living flesh, which can cause severe tissue damage, secondary infections, and potentially death if untreated. The name "screwworm" comes from the larvae's behavior of twisting deeper into the tissue like a screw as they feed. These flies are a significant agricultural pest due to the damage they inflict on livestock. The New World screwworm was successfully eradicated from North America by the early 2000s using sterile insect techniques but has recently been detected again in some areas of Mexico and parts of the Caribbean. Infestations usually start in wounds caused by injuries, insect bites, or natural openings. Treatment involves manually removing the larvae and disinfecting wounds, often with antibiotics to prevent bacterial infections. Preventative measures include keeping wounds clean and covered, using insect repellents, and protective clothing in areas where the flies are present. The larvae cannot infest cold-blooded animals or dead tissue, only live warm- blooded tissue.