20/09/2026
Imagine seeing a small, itchy bump on your child’s thigh and thinking, “Maybe it’s just a boil.”
Then after a few days, the itching becomes painful.
The swelling gets bigger.
There may even be a tiny hole in the middle.
And then… a maggot comes out. 😳
Before you start thinking “Who has done this to me like this lady?” 😂; there is actually a medical explanation.
This can be cutaneous myiasis, where the larva of certain flies develops underneath the skin. In tropical Africa, the Tumbu fly is one of the flies that can cause this.
And yes, rainy/wet periods can increase exposure in some Nigerian communities, particularly when damp clothes or bedding are left in places where flies can lay their eggs. A Nigerian study found higher cases during the rainy months.
What should make you suspicious?
Watch out for:
• A new itchy or painful boil-like swelling
• Increasing pain or irritation
• A small hole in the centre of the swelling
• Feeling movement or a strange sensation underneath the skin
• A swelling that doesn’t behave like an ordinary boil
• A larva/maggot becoming visible through the opening
Children and adults can both be affected.
And please, don’t immediately squeeze aggressively because you may injure the skin or leave part of the larva behind.
“But what about red oil?”
This is where many Nigerians will say:
“Just put red oil on it.” 😂
People commonly use oil around the opening and it works.
However, red palm oil itself is not a proven treatment but in most cases has been a home remedy that worked for many.
However, if you suspect a maggot under the skin, see a healthcare professional for proper identification and complete removal, followed by cleaning of the wound.
And here’s the prevention part people need to hear 👇🏽
During this period, don’t leave damp clothes or bedding lying on the ground to dry.
Dry them properly, preferably in bright sunlight, and iron clothes before wearing them when appropriate. Also keep wounds covered and maintain good hygiene around the home.
So, the next time you see a strange “boil” with a tiny opening in the centre, don’t automatically call it witchcraft.
Sometimes, what looks mysterious has a very simple medical explanation. ❤️
Disclaimer: A photograph alone cannot confirm myiasis; a clinician should examine a suspicious lesion.