Costa Ricans infected so far in 2025 by the parasite (Cochliomyia hominivorax) face life-threatening risks because, although rare, infections in humans can be fatal, especially in vulnerable patients, warned the National Animal Health Service, quoted by Teletica.com.

Infections in quadrupeds primarily affect cattle-producing areas of the country, such as San Carlos (86 cases), Pococi (34), San Ramon (27), Osa (18), and Siquirres (17), the research institution stated.

The number of people infected this year by the parasite that lives in living tissue triples the number reported in the same period in 2024, when laboratory tests recorded 19 cases, the source added.

The 56 Costa Ricans infected so far in 2025 include 17 people over 75 years of age, showing the impact of the screwworm on this age group, the specialists revealed. “Statistics show a predominance among people aged 20 to 64 and adults 65 and older (26 cases), but those over 75 constitute the group with the most individual records,” the Ministry of Health explained.

In a gender analysis, men account for 64 percent of infections (36 cases), with a rate of 1.3 per 100,000 inhabitants, while 20 cases were reported among women, with a rate of 0.8 percent.

Costa Rica has maintained a national health emergency declaration since February 2023 due to the presence of the screwworm, which is transmitted through the eggs of the fly Cochliomyia hominivorax and can cause severe infections in open wounds.

jdt/npg/apb