INDIANAPOLIS, Ind., June 4, 2026
Elanco Animal Health has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting veterinarians, livestock producers, and pet owners across the United States following the first confirmed case of New World screwworm (NWS) in U.S. livestock in more than five decades. The emergence of the destructive parasite in Texas marks a significant animal health concern and has prompted increased preparedness efforts throughout the veterinary and livestock sectors. New World screwworm, caused by the larvae of Cochliomyia hominivorax, poses a serious threat to animal welfare because the parasites feed on living tissue, causing severe wounds, infections, productivity losses, and potentially death if left untreated. In response, Elanco is deploying its extensive animal health expertise, treatment portfolio, and technical support resources to help producers and veterinarians manage infestations and protect livestock and companion animals. The company’s actions underscore the growing urgency surrounding biosecurity and parasite control as U.S. authorities work to contain the spread of one of the most economically damaging livestock pests in the Western Hemisphere.
First U.S. Livestock Case Triggers Heightened Animal Health Response
The confirmation of New World screwworm in U.S. livestock represents a major development for the animal agriculture industry. The parasite had been eradicated from the United States more than 50 years ago, making its return a significant concern for producers, veterinarians, and animal health officials. New World screwworm larvae can infest virtually any warm-blooded animal, including cattle, sheep, goats, horses, wildlife, companion animals, and even humans. Unlike many common parasites, screwworm larvae feed on healthy living tissue rather than dead tissue, causing rapidly expanding wounds that require immediate treatment.
Industry experts warn that widespread infestations could have severe consequences for animal welfare, livestock productivity, and agricultural economics. Elanco emphasized that rapid detection, treatment, and coordinated management strategies will be critical to limiting the impact of the parasite and protecting animal populations across affected regions. The company also acknowledged the efforts of the FDA, USDA, EPA, and animal health authorities in preparing for and responding to the emerging threat.
Elanco Deploys Veterinary Solutions and Treatment Portfolio
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Drawing on more than 70 years of animal health experience and previous involvement in screwworm management programs internationally, Elanco is offering a broad portfolio of treatment and prevention options to support field response efforts. The company highlighted several products that have received emergency regulatory authorizations or conditional approvals to address New World screwworm infestations in livestock and companion animals. Among the available options are Negasunt™ Powder, Tanidil™, Credelio™, Credelio CAT™, and Credelio Quattro™-CA1, which have been authorized or conditionally approved under specific regulatory pathways to assist in treatment and control efforts. These products provide veterinarians and producers with valuable tools for managing active infestations while helping reduce parasite-related animal suffering.
Elanco is also collaborating closely with the U.S. Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), veterinary authorities, and state agencies to ensure appropriate distribution, monitoring, and implementation of treatment protocols. The company’s comprehensive approach combines therapeutic solutions with expert guidance, education, and field support to strengthen preparedness and response capabilities.
Protecting Livestock, Pets, and Food Production Systems
The return of New World screwworm highlights the importance of proactive animal health management and biosecurity measures across both livestock and companion animal sectors. Beyond animal welfare concerns, widespread infestations could impact food production systems, increase veterinary costs, and place additional burdens on agricultural communities. Elanco stressed that prevention, surveillance, and early intervention remain essential components of effective control strategies. The company is actively working with producers to adapt management practices, improve monitoring efforts, and implement treatment programs designed to minimize the spread and impact of the parasite.
As federal and state agencies intensify surveillance activities, Elanco’s support initiatives are expected to play a critical role in protecting animal populations and maintaining agricultural resilience. The company’s response demonstrates how public-private collaboration, veterinary innovation, and emergency preparedness can help address emerging animal health threats while safeguarding livestock industries, pet health, and food security across the United States.
Source: Elanco Animal Health press release
