Can Fruit Flies Cause Myiasis?
WouterFruit flies can be a problem when they infest people’s bodies. These flies are attracted to open wounds and odorous discharges. They lay their eggs in these areas and then the larvae feed on these tissues, causing significant damage. Some species may infest the nose, mouth, or eyes. They may also infest the skin and produce creeping eruptions.
People may get myiasis accidentally by accidentally eating larvae or flies’ eggs. Other people may contract myiasis through exposure to ticks or mosquitoes. In such cases, people should clean the wounds regularly to eliminate the bacteria. Treatments for wound myiasis can include washing the wound regularly and applying a fresh dressing every day. Some patients may even be able to avoid further infections.
While fruit flies are not responsible for all myiasis cases, many species are known to cause the disease. Most species belong to two superfamilies, the Neottiphilidae and the Chloropidae. Lucilia and nest skipper flies are also associated with myiasis. The eggs will grow in the aural cavity and the larvae will feed on both dead and living tissue. The third stage will eventually emerge from the host, turning into a pupa. The pupa then develops into the adult fly.
Infected people may experience itching, a tingling sensation, or sharp, stabbing pain in the affected area. The infection is usually accompanied by a red bump that may drain a clear yellowish fluid from the center. Sometimes, the larvae will move under the skin, but they do not travel throughout the body.
