New Tool in the Bag: FDA approves new drug to fight New World Screwworm

The FDA is one step closer to approving a treatment for the parasite, New World Screwworm, in cattle.

FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary says the Administration has conditionally approved a drug to treat it. It is called “Dectomax,” and it already has full approval to treat other parasites in cattle and swine. The drug also comes with a warning to prevent drug residues in meat.

In a post on social media, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins called it a victory for our farmers and ranchers and said more good news is coming.

The approval comes just weeks after New World Screwworm was found 70 miles south of the U.S. border, which is the closest detection since the outbreak began. The southern border does remain closed to cattle movement, with no clear timeline for that reopening.

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