What Is Myiasis? Know Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

Types and Symptoms of Myiasis

1. Furuncular Myiasis

• Flies lay eggs on mosquitoes, ticks, or surfaces like fabric.
• When transferred to human skin, larvae burrow beneath the surface.
• Symptoms: Red, pimple-like bumps with a central breathing hole; itching or pain; sensation of movement under the skin.

2. Wound Myiasis

• Blowflies target open wounds, laying eggs on dead or dying tissue.
• Larvae may spread to healthy areas including eyes, ears, and nostrils.
• Vulnerable populations include those with limited access to wound care.

3. Migratory Myiasis

• Common in livestock; humans are infected through contact.
• Larvae tunnel beneath the skin, creating itchy, winding tracks.

4. Intestinal Myiasis

• Rarely, ingestion of contaminated food leads to larvae in the intestines.
• Symptoms: Abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and visible larvae in stool.