Nasopharyngeal Myiasis in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Patients: Report of Two Cases

Area of Science:

• Medical Entomology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Nosocomial myiasis is a rare hospital-acquired infection, more prevalent in resource-limited settings.
• It indicates a need for enhanced medical facility standards and healthcare worker awareness.
• Critically ill patients with impaired consciousness, paralysis, or comorbidities are particularly susceptible.

Observation:

• This study reports the first two cases of nosocomial myiasis in Kurdistan Province, Western Iran.
• One case represents the first documented instance of myiasis in a patient with COVID-19.
• The causative agent was identified as Lucilia sericata (the common green bottle fly).

Findings:

• Larval identification of Lucilia sericata was based on morphological characteristics of the cephaloskeleton, anterior spiracles, and peritreme plaques.
• The findings confirm Lucilia sericata as a cause of nosocomial myiasis in this region.
• The study documents a novel association between myiasis and COVID-19 infection.

Implications:

• These cases underscore the importance of stringent hygiene protocols in healthcare facilities, especially in developing regions.
• Increased vigilance is required to prevent and manage nosocomial myiasis, particularly in vulnerable patient populations.
• The findings contribute to understanding the epidemiology of myiasis and its potential co-occurrence with viral infections like COVID-19.