German biopharmaceutical company Boehringer Ingelheim announced on Thursday that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the use of IVOMEC (ivermectin) 1% Injection for the prevention of infestations caused by New World screwworm (NWS) in cattle.

Under the EUA, IVOMEC (ivermectin) 1% Injection is authorized for the prevention of infestations caused by NWS (Cochliomyia hominivorax) larvae (myiasis) when administered within 24 hours of birth, at the time of castration, or at the appearance of a wound in cattle, except for female dairy cattle producing milk for human consumption and calves that will be processed for veal.

Steve Boren, vice president of US Livestock at Boehringer Ingelheim, said: "Protecting the health and well-being of livestock is at the core of our mission. Emergency Use Authorization for IVOMEC (ivermectin) 1% Injection provides cattle producers and veterinarians with an important preventive tool against New World screwworm. We appreciate the proactive approach of the FDA and USDA in response to this emerging animal health threat and remain dedicated to supporting veterinarians, producers, and government as we work together to protect cattle herds."