Woman Sneezes Out Worms in Rare Nasal Infection Caused by Sheep Parasite

A startling medical case has emerged from Greece, where a 58-year-old woman expelled worm-like larvae from her nose after developing an extremely rare sinus infection.

The incident reportedly began after the woman spent time working outdoors near grazing livestock. She noticed a swarm of flies hovering around her face but did not consider it unusual at the time.

Within days, she began experiencing sinus discomfort, which gradually developed into persistent coughing. Despite these symptoms, there were no major warning signs initially.

The situation took a shocking turn when she sneezed and expelled a small worm. Alarmed, she sought medical attention from an ear, nose, and throat specialist.

Doctors later performed a procedure that revealed multiple larvae and a pupa lodged in her nasal passages. The organisms were identified as Oestrus ovis—a parasite typically found in sheep and goats.

Human infections involving this parasite are extremely uncommon. In most instances, the larvae fail to survive in the human body due to unsuitable conditions.

However, doctors believe the woman’s nasal anatomy—specifically a deviation in the nasal septum—created an environment that allowed the larvae to survive longer than expected and even develop further.

Following surgical removal and medical treatment, including decongestants, the patient recovered fully. No similar cases were reported among others working in the same area.

Medical experts note that such infections are highly unusual and are unlikely to occur under normal circumstances, but the case highlights how environmental exposure combined with unique biological factors can lead to unexpected health conditions.