The mass appearance of rat-tail worms in puddled streets and mud Poza Rica (Veracruz) After the recent floods, it has set off alarm bells in the neighborhoods. Testimonies point to its presence in areas with collapsed drains, especially after the overflow of the Cazones River.
Although no decree has been issued health alert, consulted specialists emphasize that they are larvae with a relevant ecological role and whose proliferation reveals high levels of pollution. The main recommendation is avoid direct contact with mud and stagnant water and extreme hygiene.
What are they and how are they identified?
Known as rat-tail worms They are the immature phase of the hoverflies of the genus Eristalis, frequently Eristalis tenaxHis nickname comes from a breathing tube very elongated at the end of the body, like a “tail”, which allows them to take in oxygen while remaining submerged.
These larvae reach approximately two centimeters in length, and its respiratory siphon can measure more than ten centimeters. Its preferred habitat is waters with high organic load, low oxygenation and poor circulation, such as puddles with waste, collapsed drains or graves.
In their adult phase, the flies of the group Eristalis They resemble drones and act like pollinators of crops and wild flora. The presence of larvae on the surface usually coincides with cleaning tasks or lowering of water after episodes of floods.
Why have they appeared after the floods in Veracruz?
Heavy rains and rising waters Cazones River They left large areas flooded in Poza Rica y Temapache Poplar, generating sludge with abundant organic matter and sewer collapses. In this scenario, ideal conditions for the development of these larvae.
Their proliferation is not accidental: where there is contaminated water, little oxygen and decomposing remains, the larvae of Eristalis They thrive and become more visible when the water recedes. This phenomenon has even been reported weeks later from the peak of the emergency.
It is worth remembering that, although their appearance may be shocking, these organisms help to decompose waste and recycle nutrients. Its presence, however, acts as pollution indicator which requires reinforced hygiene.
Health risks: what is known
In general, the so-called rat-tail worms They do not attack people. The main risk comes from the bacterial load from the mud and water where they live, rather than from the larvae themselves.
There are isolated reports of intestinal or cutaneous myiasis when larvae or other associated organisms enter the body through contaminated water or food or by contact with wounds. These are rare conditions, but it's best not to let your guard down.
- Abdominal pain and persistent colic
- Nausea and vomiting after ingesting contaminated water or food
- Anal irritation or cutaneous in exposed areas
- General malaise and Diarrhea in specific cases
People with open wounds, immunosuppression, minors and adults should take extreme precautions. If symptoms are compatible, it is recommended medical consultation and avoid self-medication.
Preventive measures in streets and homes
Local authorities have deployed control actions, such as lime application on organic waste, fumigations and pumping of persistent ponds. However, the resistance of these larvae to media with low oxygenation makes its immediate eradication difficult.
For citizens, the guideline is clear: Do not touch larvae, avoid walking barefoot or with open shoes on mud and use boots and gloves for cleaning tasks. After exposure, wash thoroughly with soap and water and disinfect possible injuries.
In homes, it is advisable to discard foods susceptible to contamination, clean surfaces with disinfectant solutions and store safe water. If potability is not guaranteed, boil water or use water purification tablets.
Pouring is not recommended insecticides directly into bodies of water or drains, due to their environmental impact. Waste management and the sanitation of the environment are more effective and sustainable.
Their ecological role: why they also matter
Although they may be unpleasant, these larvae contribute to recycle nutrients and accelerate the decomposition of organic matter. In aquatic systems, they serve as food to fish and amphibians, integrating into the food chain.
Seeing them in large numbers after a flood indicates a imbalance of the urban ecosystem, not an aggressive pest. Adults such as Eristalis tenax They also act as pollinators, so their management must balance public health and environmental protection.
Flood context and recovery in Veracruz
The rains that affected Veracruz, Hidalgo, Puebla y San Luis Potosi have left, until now, 78 deceased y 23 missingIn Poza Rica and nearby towns, residents continue to remove accumulated mud and damaged belongings awaiting further support.
The material impact is compounded by the proliferation of flies and mosquitoes, favored by garbage and retained water. The appearance of the larvae of rat tail It is part of that same post-flood scenario.
What to do if you find them or have had contact
If these larvae are detected at home or on the street, the priority is avoid them and contact municipal services for its removal where appropriate. For cleaning, use protección (gloves, boots) and dispose of organic waste in closed bags.
In case of contact with mud or dirty water, perform a thorough hygiene, change clothes and monitor for the appearance of symptoms. dolor abdominal, fever, vomiting or irritation, go to the health center and report the possible exposure.
Could something similar happen in Europe?
The species Eristalis tenax It is widespread in much of the world, including Europe. Episodes of pollution due to flooding could also favor the presence of these larvae in flooded environments, so hygiene recommendations and prevention are extrapolable.
The key is in the sanitation After heavy rains: rapid removal of waste, drainage of puddles and control of points with organic matter to reduce sources of proliferation.
The emergence of the so-called rat-tail worms In Veracruz, this is due to the conditions created by the floods: stagnant water, mud, and a high organic load. Although they do not represent a direct danger, they do require caution due to the possible contamination associated; careful hygiene, protective equipment, and swift sanitation of public spaces are the best defenses while recovery progresses.