Emergency authorization offers short term protection for horses
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for Ivermectin Liquid for Horses to help prevent New World screwworm (NWS) infestations in horses.
The authorization allows the product to be used within 24 hours of a horse’s birth or during initial wound care. Officials said the action is part of broader efforts to protect livestock and animal health from the threat posed by New World screwworm.
“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 parasitic fly whose larvae feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals. Animals with open wounds, including newborns with healing umbilical areas, are especially vulnerable. If left untreated, infestations can become severe and potentially life-threatening.
"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.”
According to the FDA, available scientific evidence suggests that Ivermectin Liquid for Horses may help provide short-term protection against New World screwworm infestations in horses. The agency determined that the expected benefits outweigh potential risks when the product is used as authorized.
The authorization applies only to prevention and not treatment. Horse owners are advised to contact a veterinarian if an infestation is already present or developed after the drug is administered.
Veterinary experts noted that the product provides protection for no more than 24 hours. Because of this limited window, it should be used alongside other preventive measures such as wound bandaging, fly repellents, and fly-control programs.
“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."
Ivermectin Liquid for Horses is a ready-to-use oral solution that can be administered by drench or through a stomach tube. The product is available only through a prescription from a licensed veterinarian and is approved only for use in horses.
The emergency authorization will remain in effect until it is revoked, or the public health emergency declaration related to New World screwworm is terminated. The product is sponsored by Alberta Vet Labs Ltd. of Canada.
The FDA said the authorization adds another tool to ongoing efforts aimed at reducing the risk of New World screwworm infestations and protecting animal health across the agricultural sector.
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