Myiasis is a parasitic infection caused by fly larvae that infest human tissue. While rare in the U.S., it’s more common in tropical regions like Central and South America, Africa, and the Caribbean. Travelers and individuals with untreated wounds are most at risk.
What Is Myiasis?
Myiasis occurs when certain fly species lay eggs on mammals—including humans. These eggs hatch into larvae (maggots), which burrow into tissue to grow. Importantly, myiasis is not contagious—it cannot be spread from person to person.

