03/03/2026
The maggot that sometimes comes out of a human or dog’s body is usually the larva of a fly. The condition is called myiasis.
🔎 What is it called?
The most common one in Nigeria and many parts of Africa is the larva of the:
• Cordylobia anthropophaga – commonly called the tumbu fly or mango fly
• Another one found in the Americas is Dermatobia hominis
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🦟 What is Myiasis?
Myiasis is when fly larvae (maggots) infect the skin and grow inside it.
It can affect:
• Humans
• Dogs
• Other animals
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🩺 How it happens
• The fly lays eggs on damp clothes, soil, or animal bedding.
• The eggs hatch.
• The tiny larvae pe*****te the skin.
• They grow under the skin for days or weeks.
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⚠️ Signs and symptoms
• Painful boil-like swelling
• A small hole in the center
• Movement feeling inside
• Sometimes pus or fluid discharge
• The maggot may come out on its own
In dogs, you may notice:
• Swelling with a hole
• Restlessness
• Licking or scratching the area
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🚨 What to do
• Do NOT squeeze aggressively.
• Covering the hole with petroleum jelly can sometimes block air and force the maggot to come out.
• Best option: Go to a hospital or veterinary clinic for proper removal.
• The wound should be cleaned and treated to prevent infection.
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🔴 When Antibiotics ARE Needed
Antibiotics may be prescribed if there are signs of bacterial infection, such as:
• Increased redness around the wound
• Swelling spreading
• Pus discharge
• Fever
• Severe pain
• Bad smell
• The person has diabetes or low immunity
In these cases, a doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics.
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🐕 For Dogs
Veterinarians often give antibiotics if:
• There are multiple maggots
• The wound is large
• There is secondary infection
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⚠️ Important
Antibiotics do not kill the maggot.
The maggot must be physically removed first.
After removal:
• Clean with antiseptic
• Dress properly
• Monitor for infection
