The FDA is giving farmers, ranchers, veterinarians, and wildlife managers another tool in the fight against New World Screwworm. The agency announced recently an Emergency Use Authorization for CLiK Extra wound spray, a product that can help prevent New World Screwworm infections in a wide range of animals. The authorization covers sheep, cattle, goats, swine, and animals including llamas, alpacas, and camels.
It also includes certain captive and captured wildlife such as deer, elk, and American bison. The spray is designed for use on or around wounds, including wounds associated with birth, surgery, or routine livestock procedures such as dehorning, ear tagging, castration, tail docking, and shearing. Rather than directly killing screwworm larvae, CLiK Extra works as an insect growth regulator.
The FDA says it disrupts larval development and stops the parasite’s life cycle before it can cause tissue damage. The product is available over the counter for topical use, but the FDA emphasizes that this authorization is for prevention only. If an animal already has a screwworm infestation or develops one after treatment, producers should contact a veterinarian about treatment options.
New World Screwworm remains a serious concern for livestock and wildlife because the larvae feed on living tissue. The FDA says this latest authorization expands the tools available to help prevent the pest from spreading and protecting animals across the United States.
Audio Reporting by Elizabeth Sanders for Southeast AgNet.