R-CALF is urging the FDA to approve ivermectin to prevent New World screwworm

R-CALF USA is calling on the FDA to approve ivermectin to help protect livestock from the possible spread of New World screwworm in the U.S.

The group says that feed-grade ivermectin is a proven tool to protect domestic herds and wildlife, especially in southern border states.
They highlight the success of the drug in limiting the spread of cattle fever tick.

“The potential impact on the United States livestock markets would be immensely negative if an actual case of New World screwworm was identified in the USA. Until an adequate response with gamma ray irradiation of male screw worm flies can be implemented, the feeding of ivermectin is a very real defense.”

The request follows false reports that New World screwworm was found in Missouri. That claim caused a downturn in cattle futures markets and is now being investigated by the state of Missouri.

Related Stories
The EPA has approved over-the-top dicamba applications for the 2026 and 2027 growing seasons, outlining new rules that impact herbicide use for U.S. crop producers.
Top issues facing the beef industry took center stage at CattleCon this year in Nashville.
Representative Henry Cuellar (D-TX), who sits on the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, spoke exclusively with RFD NEWS about what Congress is doing to address screwworm concerns, including funding for a sterile fly production facility in Mexico.
HHS Secretary Robert Kennedy calls on cattle producers to retain breeding cows while Ivomec receives emergency authorization to prevent New World screwworm.
Global pork production is expected to rise in the first half of 2026, despite trade volatility stemming from shifting import policies and swine disease pressures.
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller discusses the state’s latest efforts to prevent the New World screwworm from reaching Texas.

Agriculture Shows
Watch Rural Evening News on RFD Network to catch up on that day’s news surrounding agriculture and markets from across the world.
Every day on RFD Network, “Market Day Report” delivers LIVE coverage of agribusiness news, weather, and commodity market information from across the world. Our commodity markets coverage is updated every half hour to bringyou the latest agriculture news.
Farm Monitor shines a light on Southeastern agriculture and is the only weekly news and information program dedicated to Georgia’s largest and most important industry: agriculture.
Check out FFA Today, a fun and fast-paced show featuring fascinating stories about amazing kids and unique agriculture industries.