Overview

• The CDC verified the infection on Aug. 4 after reviewing larvae images from a traveler returning from El Salvador, which HHS called the first U.S.-identified, travel-associated case linked to the current regional outbreak.
• The Maryland Department of Health says the patient has recovered, investigators found no spread to people or animals, and the risk to public and animal health in the state remains low.
• No U.S. animal cases have been detected this year; the parasite primarily targets livestock, human infections are rare and treated by physically removing larvae, and the condition is not contagious between people.
• USDA is scaling the sterile-insect program and planning a Texas production facility capable of up to 300 million sterile flies per week, alongside intensified surveillance at the southern border.
• HHS on Aug. 19 authorized the FDA to issue emergency use authorizations for veterinary drugs to treat or prevent screwworm in animals, as agencies warn an outbreak in U.S. herds could carry major economic costs.