Mango Worms in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Dogs love to play outside, roll in the grass, and dig in the dirt. But sometimes, this fun can lead to unexpected problems — one of them is an infection caused by mango worms. If you’ve ever seen videos or pictures of dogs with tiny worms under their skin, that’s exactly what this is. It sounds scary, but with care and treatment, dogs can recover completely. Let’s learn what mango worms are, how dogs get them, how to treat them, and how to prevent future infections.

What Are Mango Worms?

Mango worms, also known as tumbu fly larvae, come from a type of fly found mainly in tropical regions of Africa and some parts of Asia. These flies lay eggs on the ground, in sand, or on dirty clothes and bedding. When a dog lies down on that area, the eggs stick to its fur and skin.

After a short time, the eggs hatch, and the tiny larvae (worms) burrow into the dog’s skin. They stay there and grow for about one to two weeks, feeding on the dog’s tissue. Each worm creates a small swelling or bump on the skin, with a tiny hole in the middle where it breathes. This is what gives the infection its strange, bubbly appearance.

How Do Dogs Get Mango Worms?

Mango worms usually infect dogs that spend time outdoors, especially in warm, humid places. Here are the most common ways dogs get infected:

Sleeping on contaminated soil or clothes – The flies often lay eggs in soil, dirty fabric, or bedding.
Poor hygiene or grooming – Dogs that aren’t bathed or brushed regularly are more likely to attract flies.
Wounds or cuts – If a dog has open wounds, flies may lay eggs near them, making it easier for larvae to enter the skin.
Shelter and street dogs – Stray dogs are more at risk because they sleep outdoors and don’t get regular cleaning or medical care.

Even though the name sounds like “mango,” this has nothing to do with the fruit. It’s just a local nickname — the real culprit is the tumbu fly.

Symptoms of Mango Worm Infection

At first, it may not be obvious that your dog has mango worms. The symptoms develop slowly as the larvae grow under the skin. Common signs include:

Small, raised bumps on the skin that look like pimples or boils
A tiny hole or dark spot in the center of each bump
Clear fluid or pus coming out of the bumps
Constant scratching, licking, or biting at the affected area
Restlessness or discomfort
In severe cases, fever and loss of appetite

If you press gently around a bump, you may see movement — this is the live larva inside. That’s why it’s very important not to squeeze the bumps yourself, as it can cause more infection or pain.

How Mango Worms Are Treated

Treatment for mango worms should always be done carefully, preferably by a veterinarian. The goal is to remove all the larvae safely and prevent infection. Here’s how it’s usually done:

Larvae Removal
The vet will gently press around each bump or use special tools to extract the worm. Sometimes, a bit of antiseptic or oil (like coconut oil or petroleum jelly) is applied first to block the larva’s air supply — this forces it to come out on its own.
Cleaning the Wound
After removing the larvae, the area is cleaned with antiseptic to kill bacteria. This helps the wound heal faster and prevents further infection.
Medication
The vet may prescribe antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medicine to reduce pain and swelling. If the infection is severe, additional treatment or injections may be needed.
Follow-up Care
The wounds must be kept clean and dry. Owners should check daily for any new bumps or signs of infection.

When treated properly, most dogs recover completely within a week or two. The small holes heal naturally and rarely leave scars.

Can Mango Worms Harm Humans?

Yes, humans can also be infected, but it’s much less common. People usually get infected the same way — by using or sleeping on clothes that have fly eggs on them. That’s why it’s important to iron clothes that have been dried outside in tropical areas, as heat kills the eggs. Pet owners should wear gloves when handling infected animals and wash their hands properly afterward.

How to Prevent Mango Worms in Dogs

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some simple ways to protect your dog:

Keep your dog clean.
Bathe and brush your dog regularly. Clean fur discourages flies from laying eggs.
Wash and dry bedding properly.
Always dry your dog’s blanket or bedding in direct sunlight and store it indoors.
Use insect repellents.
Ask your vet about safe sprays or spot-on treatments that keep flies away.
Check your dog’s skin often.
Look for small bumps or unusual scratching, especially during warm months.
Keep sleeping areas clean.
Don’t let your dog sleep on damp ground or dirty clothes.
Protect stray animals.
If you see street dogs suffering from mango worms, contact a local vet or animal rescue group. These infections can be painful, and quick treatment can save lives.

Conclusion

Mango worms may look frightening, but the good news is that they’re treatable and preventable. By keeping your dog clean, checking its skin often, and maintaining a hygienic environment, you can protect your pet from this uncomfortable parasite. If you ever notice strange bumps or signs of discomfort, don’t wait — visit your vet right away.

Your dog depends on you for care and comfort. A little attention and good hygiene can make sure your furry friend stays happy, healthy, and worm-free. Remember, love and cleanliness go hand in hand when it comes to caring for our loyal companions.

Mango Worms in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment