Mango fly

Mango Fly

The Mango Fly (Cordylobia anthropophaga), also known as the Tumbu Fly, is a species of blowfly native to certain regions of Africa. It is a significant parasite in both humans and animals, known for its larval stage, during which it burrows into the skin of its host.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of the Mango Fly begins when a female lays her eggs on damp clothing or soil. These eggs hatch into larvae within 2-3 days, and the larvae then seek out a host. The larvae penetrate the skin of the host and develop into pupae over a period of 8-12 days. The pupae then fall to the ground and develop into adult flies within 1-3 weeks.

Medical Significance

The Mango Fly is a significant cause of myiasis, a parasitic infection in which fly larvae infest the body of a living host. Symptoms of myiasis include a painful, itchy swelling, often with a central punctum through which the larvae breathe. If left untreated, the larvae can cause serious tissue damage and secondary bacterial infections.

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention of Mango Fly infestation involves avoiding contact with damp clothing or soil in areas where the flies are prevalent. Treatment typically involves the removal of the larvae from the skin, often through the use of forceps or by suffocating the larvae with petroleum jelly or similar substances.

See Also

• Myiasis
• Blowfly
• Parasite

References

This tropical disease related article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it.