In Guangdong, China, a man has had his left eyeball removed following a serious infection triggered by a seemingly harmless fly. The case has drawn significant attention on social media, prompting discussions about hygiene and the health risks associated with insects.
Wu, a resident of Shenzhen, initially experienced discomfort when a fly landed on his face. After swatting the insect away, he noticed that his left eye became red, swollen, and increasingly painful. Despite seeking medical treatment, Wu’s condition worsened quickly, and a preliminary diagnosis of seasonal conjunctivitis proved insufficient.
The infection, aggravated by the fly, led to severe ulceration around Wu’s eye, resulting in irreversible damage. According to Yangcheng Evening News, despite ongoing medication, the infection continued to spread uncontrollably. To prevent further complications, including the risk of the infection spreading to his brain, doctors made the decision to remove Wu’s left eyeball.
The fly in question was identified as a drain fly, a species commonly found in damp and unsanitary environments such as bathrooms and kitchens. Drain flies are known for carrying numerous germs and are associated with various health risks.
This incident is not isolated; similar cases have been reported in China before. For instance, in October 2018, a 97-year-old woman suffered severe pain from a fly landing on a wound, leading to a secondary infection exacerbated by poor bathroom hygiene.
The case highlights the importance of maintaining good hygiene and being cautious about the presence of insects in unsanitary conditions.