By Heather Schlitz and Cassandra Garrison

(Reuters) -Mexico has recorded 5,086 cases of flesh-eating screwworm in animals as of August 17, a 53% jump from the number of cases reported in July, according to Mexican government data seen by Reuters on Wednesday.

The updated numbers, which have not been previously reported to the public, showed 649 currently active cases.

"That's absolutely concerning," said Neal Wilkins, CEO of conservation and cattle group East Foundation. "Having a 50% increase in month-over-month numbers, particularly in the extreme heat, means they haven't gotten it under control."

The vast majority of cases were identified in cattle, though Mexican government data also showed infestations in dogs, horses and sheep.

Screwworms are parasites that eat warm-blooded anim

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