Screwworms in US: Human risk is low—but they can burrow through your skull

New World screwworms were detected in the United States in June 2026 for the first time in decades , with no reported human infestations and low human risk . When humans are infected, infestations cause rapidly enlarging, painful wounds that can progress to deeper tissues, creating risks of secondary infection and sepsis . While public health risk remains low, the agricultural stakes are substantial as screwworm outbreaks cause significant morbidity and mortality in livestock .

Source: Ars Technica | 2026-06-09