By Jamie Martin
Horse owners and veterinarians have a new tool to help reduce the risk of New World screwworm infestations following an Emergency Use Authorization issued by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
The authorization covers Ivermectin Liquid for Horses, an oral solution intended for short-term prevention of New World screwworm (NWS) infestations. The medication may be administered within 24 hours of birth or during the initial treatment of wounds.
“The Trump administration will use every available tool to stop New World screwworm from threatening America’s horses and livestock,” said U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “This EUA expands our defenses, strengthens our preparedness, and helps protect the animals, producers, and communities that drive American agriculture."
New World screwworm is a harmful parasite that affects warm-blooded animals. The fly lays eggs in open wounds, and the larvae feed on living tissue. Young animals and those with untreated wounds face the highest risk of infestation.
"President Trump has directed his entire administration to do what it can to combat and stop the spread of New World screwworm. We at USDA have been working with our federal partners to prepare for any potential infestation of animals that may occur as a result of New World screwworm, and today’s announcement is another step in the right direction," said U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke L. Rollins.
She added, "HHS and FDA have stepped up to the plate and have moved at Trump speed to authorize as many treatments as needed to protect our livestock, wildlife, and companion animals. I am thankful to Secretary Kennedy for getting this authorization across the finish line and ensuring our horse population has access to preventative measures, should they need it.”
The FDA reviewed available scientific information and concluded that the medication may be effective in providing short-term protection against NWS in horses. The agency also determined that the potential benefits outweigh known and potential risks when used according to authorization requirements.
Officials emphasized that the product is designed only to prevent infestations and should not be considered a treatment for active cases. Any horse showing signs of an infestation should be examined by a veterinarian to determine proper treatment options.
Experts also noted that the preventive effect lasts for a maximum of 24 hours. As a result, horse owners should continue using additional management practices such as repellents, wound protection, and fly-control measures to lower exposure risks.
“This authorization provides a short-term prevention option for horses, but owners and veterinarians should be aware of the limitations,” said Timothy Schell, Ph.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine. “This product's window of prevention lasts no more than 24 hours, so it is important that the product be used alongside other preventive measures such as bandaging, repellents, and other fly-control methods."
The prescription-only product is available as a ready-to-use oral solution and is intended exclusively for horses. It should not be administered to other animal species.
The emergency authorization will continue until federal authorities determine that the emergency conditions related to New World screwworm no longer justify its use. The product is sponsored by Alberta Vet Labs Ltd., a Canadian company.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-d-keine
Categories: National