__What is a Botfly?__

A botfly is a type of large, toothed fly that belongs to the family Oestridae. Botflies are found in many parts of the world, including North and South America, Europe and parts of Africa. In their larval stage, these flies are parasites that infest the skin of animals and humans, creating a hole so that the larvae can feed off the blood of the host. Botfly larvae are small, white grubs that can reach lengths of up to 1 cm. They are typically found in the tufts of fur or feathers of their hosts.

Botflies use a variety of methods to infect their hosts. In some cases, adult female botflies will lay eggs directly on the host’s skin, or on the fur or feathers, where the larvae can hatch. Another method is for the female botfly to lay eggs in the nostrils, mouth, or even on the eyelids of the host, where the larvae can then hatch and enter the skin. In addition, some species of botflies have the ability to inject their larvae directly into the skin of the host.

The female botfly can lay 500-800 eggs at a time, making them particularly prolific and pervasive parasites. The eggs hatch into larvae in a matter of days, and from there, it can take around two to three months for the larvae to complete their development and reach maturity. The whole process takes about three to six months in total, depending on the species of botfly.

__The Symptoms of Botfly Infestation__

The presence of a botfly infestation is often obvious, as the larvae create a raised, reddened area that is usually itchy and painful. In some cases, a small, white head is visible under the skin, which is the entrance of the botfly larva. The sore will usually heal and form a scab over time, although this can take several weeks.

In cases of botfly infestation in humans, the symptoms generally range from mild to severe. On the milder end, the area may be itchy, red and swollen. If the infestation has progressed further, then the affected area may be filled with pus and a foul smell, as the larvae feed off blood and body secretions. Severe cases can also lead to malaise, fever and headaches, due to the body’s immune response to the infestation.

__Treatment for Botfly Infestation__

If you suspect that you or your pet may be suffering from a botfly infestation, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. The most common treatment for botfly infestation is to apply a topical insecticide, such as permethrin, to the affected area. This will kill the larvae, allowing them to be removed from the skin. If this is not possible, then a doctor may need to surgically remove the larvae to prevent infection.

It is also important to practice good hygiene and grooming, as this can help to prevent infestations in the first place. Also, try to keep the area where the botfly eggs are deposited clean and dry, as this can stop the eggs from hatching and infesting their host.