The Centre for Health Protection has confirmed a myiasis case in an 88-year-old North District woman, in which maggots infested wounds on her feet.

She was admitted to North District Hospital on July 19 and is in stable condition. There have been seven cases so far this year, and six last year.

Elderly home staff are urged to be particularly vigilant. People should:

* treat wounds immediately, cleaning and dressing them properly, as fluids and blood are known to attract some fly species that produce maggots;

* use window screens to keep out flies; and,