What are mango worms: Can you or your dog get these nightmarish parasites? |
The first time most people hear about mango worms, the reaction is disbelief. It sounds fake, exaggerated, or like something meant to scare people online. Unfortunately, mango worms are very real. They are not common everywhere, but where they exist, they cause genuine fear and discomfort. People usually hear about them through dog rescue videos or travel stories, and once you know they can live under the skin, it is hard to forget.Mango worms cause a condition known as furuncular myiasis, where fly larvae develop beneath the skin of a living host. A peer-reviewed study published in Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease explains how certain fly species can penetrate intact skin, remain hidden for days, and complete their larval growth inside humans and animals, leading to painful, boil-like lesions.
What are mango worms
Despite the name, mango worms are not worms. They are the larvae of the African tumbu fly. The adult fly does not bite. Instead, it lays eggs on soil or on damp materials such as towels, bedsheets, or clothes left outside. The eggs hatch into larvae that wait for warmth.When skin touches the surface where the larvae are present, they enter the body. This usually happens without pain, which is why people do not notice right away. Once inside, the larva stays just below the skin and begins to grow.
What happens once a mango worm enters the skin
Over several days, the area becomes swollen and sore. The lump often looks like a boil or infected pimple. There is usually a tiny hole in the centre, which the larva uses to breathe. This is one of the clearest signs that the swelling is not a normal skin infection.People sometimes notice fluid discharge or a strange pulsing feeling. That sensation alone is enough to cause panic, especially if someone does not know what mango worms are.
How humans get mango worms
Humans usually get mango worms by accident. The most common cause is wearing clothes that were dried outdoors in areas where tumbu flies exist. The larvae can survive in fabric and transfer directly to the skin once the clothes are worn.Travellers are often affected because they are unfamiliar with local precautions. Ironing clothes may feel unnecessary, but heat is what kills the eggs and larvae before they can cause infection.
Why do dogs get mango worms more often
Dogs are much more likely to get mango worms than humans. They lie on soil, sleep outdoors, and spend time in places where flies lay eggs. Puppies and stray dogs are especially vulnerable.In dogs, mango worms often appear in clusters. The belly, legs, neck, and back are common spots. Dogs may lick or bite the area constantly, cry when touched, or act unusually tired. Without treatment, infections can worsen quickly.
Signs you should never ignore
Whether in humans or dogs, mango worms usually cause painful swelling, redness, and a visible central opening. Itching is common at first, followed by pain. In dogs, behaviour changes are often the first clue something is wrong.Any lump that seems to move, ooze, or worsen rapidly needs medical or veterinary attention.
How mango worms are removed safely
Removal needs care. Health professionals usually block the larva’s air supply using oils or ointments, forcing it to surface. Once visible, it can be removed intact. This matters because breaking the larva inside the skin increases infection risk.Squeezing or digging at home often makes things worse. After removal, wounds are cleaned and monitored, and antibiotics may be given if infection is present.
How to prevent mango worms
Prevention is straightforward but important. Clothes, bedding, and towels should not be dried on bare ground in affected regions. Ironing is not optional, it is protective.For dogs, clean sleeping areas, raised bedding, and regular skin checks make a big difference. Early detection prevents serious complications.
Are mango worms found everywhere
Mango worms are mainly found in parts of Africa, but travel means cases can appear elsewhere. Awareness matters more than location. Knowing what to look for helps prevent delayed treatment.Mango worms are disturbing, yes, but they are not unbeatable. With basic precautions and timely care, both people and dogs recover fully, and the experience becomes a warning rather than a lasting problem.Also read| Do cats like getting kisses, and how to tell if your cat actually enjoys them
