- The first confirmed U.S. livestock case of New World screwworm has been reported in Texas.
- Elanco says it is deploying treatment and prevention resources for livestock and companion animals.
- The parasite can infest nearly all warm-blooded animals, including cattle, horses, pets, wildlife and humans.
- Several Elanco products have received FDA or EPA emergency authorizations for use against New World screwworm infestations.
- The company is working with federal agencies and industry stakeholders to support surveillance, treatment and producer education efforts.
The first confirmed case of New World screwworm (NWS) in U.S. livestock has been identified in Texas, marking the parasite’s return to the United States and raising concerns across the veterinary and livestock industries.
In response, Elanco Animal Health announced it is mobilizing treatment options, technical expertise and educational resources to help producers, veterinarians and pet owners address the emerging threat.
New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) larvae feed on living tissue and can infest a wide range of warm-blooded animals. The parasite poses significant animal welfare and economic risks, particularly for cattle producers, due to its ability to rapidly worsen wounds and cause severe tissue damage.
Industry Preparing for a Long-Term Response
The emergence of New World screwworm in the United States represents a challenge not seen north of the Florida Keys since the pest was eradicated from the country more than five decades ago.
“New World screwworm could have a devastating impact on animal health, welfare and producer livelihoods,” said Jeff Simmons, president and CEO of Elanco Animal Health.
Simmons also acknowledged the efforts of the USDA, FDA and EPA to prepare for the threat and said Elanco remains committed to supporting customers with available treatment options and scientific expertise.
Treatment Resources Available
Elanco highlighted several products that can be used to treat or help prevent New World screwworm infestations in companion animals and livestock.
Among them are Credelio Quattro-CA1, which recently received FDA conditional approval for treatment of New World screwworm infestations in dogs, as well as emergency use authorizations for Credelio in dogs and Credelio CAT in cats.
For livestock producers, Negasunt Powder and Tanidil have received emergency regulatory authorizations and exemptions for use against New World screwworm. Distribution of those products will occur through USDA APHIS and the National Veterinary Stockpile in coordination with state animal health officials and federally recognized tribal agencies.
Elanco also noted that Catron IV remains available as an EPA-approved product for controlling screwworm flies and maggots in livestock.
Looking Ahead
Drawing on decades of experience managing New World screwworm in other regions of the world, Elanco said it will continue working with veterinarians, producers and industry organizations as surveillance, prevention and treatment efforts expand in the United States.
Additional information is available through USDA’s New World Screwworm Alert and Fact Sheet, FDA guidance for veterinarians, NCBA screwworm resources, and Elanco’s New World screwworm information updates.
Information sourced from an Elanco Animal Health press release.
