Tumbu fly

Tumbu fly (also known as mango fly, putzi fly, or skin maggot fly) is a species of blow-fly common in East and Central Africa. It is one of several species in the genus Cordylobia, which are parasites of large mammals during their larval stage. Tumbu flies are vectors for the skin infestation myiasis.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of the tumbu fly involves four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The female tumbu fly lays her eggs in the soil or on damp clothes or bed linens. When the eggs hatch, the larvae penetrate the skin of the host, where they develop into mature larvae. After about 8-12 days, the larvae drop out of the skin and pupate in the soil. After 1-3 weeks, the adult flies emerge from the pupae.

Myiasis

Myiasis is the infestation of the skin by developing larvae (maggots) of a variety of fly species, including the tumbu fly. In humans, these flies can cause a condition known as cutaneous myiasis, a skin condition resulting from infestation by fly larvae. Symptoms include a painful, itchy swelling that may develop into a boil-like sore.

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention of tumbu fly infestation involves avoiding contact with the flies and their larvae. This can be achieved by ironing clothes before wearing them, as the heat kills the eggs. Treatment involves the removal of the larvae from the skin, usually by a healthcare professional. In some cases, a local anesthetic may be used to numb the area before removal.

See Also

• Myiasis
• Cordylobia
• Blow-fly