New World Screwworm
Continued from page 8
“ NCBA is actively pushing for federal engagement to address the screwworm threat swiftly and decisively,” Wehrbein said.“ USDA’ s announcement of domestic sterile fly facility construction is just one example of our work coming to fruition. But federal action alone isn’ t enough.”
In any animal health emergency, USDA may defer to state veterinarians and agriculture commissioners, who make decisions based on local risk assessments. That’ s why NCBA is advocating for early and ongoing collaboration among state animal health officials and working in lockstep with state affiliate partners. A coordinated approach means building relationships and communication channels before an emergency strikes.
If New World screwworm is detected anywhere in the country, states must be ready to implement science-based animal movement controls and inspection protocols. These measures must protect livestock health while allowing commerce to continue. By fostering alignment between federal agencies and state authorities, NCBA is laying the groundwork for a rapid, unified response— essential for producer support, containment and minimizing economic disruption.
McCan emphasized the importance of communication and preparation.“ We didn’ t have the communication tools back then,” he said.“ Now, we can get the word out quickly to landowners and producers. I’ m optimistic about the technology we have today, but we don’ t have the labor we had in the’ 60s. That means we need to lean into best management practices and ensure we have as many treatment options as possible.”
Treatments
Currently, there are no FDA-approved medications specifically labeled to treat or prevent New World screwworm myiasis in cattle. In the event of an outbreak, treatment would likely rely on extra-label use of approved drugs under veterinary supervision. Fortunately, a recent declaration from the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services has opened the door for the Food and Drug Administration to issue Emergency Use Authorizations for animal drugs targeting screwworm infestations. This gives the FDA greater flexibility to update labels for existing products and evaluate new ones more quickly.
NCBA continues to urge the FDA’ s Center for Veterinary Medicine to expedite the review process for these critical treatments. In the meantime, producers are encouraged to maintain strong relationships with their veterinarians, report unusual health issues promptly, continue judicious use of animal health products, and implement enhanced biosecurity plans.
International Collaboration
As part of its comprehensive strategy to prevent a New World screwworm outbreak, NCBA is working closely with USDA to ensure Mexico is a fully engaged partner in eradication efforts. The pest remains endemic in parts of South America, and without strong surveillance and control measures in neighboring countries, the risk of northward spread remains high.
“ We have spent many hours with Mexican government officials and representatives of their cattle industry,” Wehrbein said.“ Our goal is to make sure Mexico steps up its screwworm eradication efforts by establishing active surveillance with fly traps, supporting sterile fly release to control populations and initiating construction on a sterile fly production facility. We’ re also pushing for movement controls, rigorous inspections and standardized treatments for cattle at their borders.”
This international coordination is not just strategic— it’ s essential. Without a unified approach, containment becomes exponentially more difficult. NCBA is committed to ensuring both sides of the border are equipped and accountable.
“ NCBA is doing everything we can to prevent an outbreak in the United States,” Wehrbein said.“ We will keep pushing to get more sterile flies, secure approvals for new screwworm treatments and hold Mexico accountable in this fight. This is a rapidly changing situation, so for the latest updates, be sure to follow NCBA on social media and visit our website at www. ncba. org.”
NCBA Priorities for Combating New World Screwworm
1. Increase sterile fly production
2. Enhance coordination with stakeholder groups
3. Accelerate approval of vital treatments
4. Strengthen eradication efforts across borders
CLICK HERE
New world screwworm: Information for vets | FDA
Pesticides to potentially use against NWS
Photo courtesy of COPEG.
10 NATIONAL CATTLEMEN DIRECTIONS 2025