PARSIPPANY, N.J. — June 4, 2026 — With the recent New World screwworm (NWS) incursion in Texas, it’s important to be aware of your herd’s risk level and be vigilant in checking your livestock for signs of an infestation.
"We understand that livestock producers and animal caretakers are facing a stressful and uncertain time as New World screwworm threatens what they've worked so hard to build. At Zoetis, we stand with you because protecting your animals means protecting your livelihood, your families, and your way of life. Planning ahead is critical, and we're committed to being a resource and a partner," said Kristin Kasselman, Senior Vice President, Head of Livestock & Equine, Zoetis.
Producers are encouraged to diligently observe livestock daily, if possible, for signs of NWS infestation. An intense smell of decay is often the first indication, so you will want to investigate to find the source of the odor.
Be prepared to report a New World screwworm infestation to your veterinarian or state veterinary authority as quickly as possible. Now is a good time to review and bookmark the U.S. Department of Agriculture response playbook for quick, practical guidance.
“If you haven’t already prepared a plan, we encourage producers to work closely with their veterinarian to put written action plans in place now,” said Dr. Mitch Blanding, Director of Beef Technical Services, Zoetis. “It will be critical to quickly report any case of New World screwworm. We want to be able to document and isolate these cases, clean and debride the wounds where possible, remove any larvae that are easily removed, and apply approved topicals to the wound to promote healing.”
Your herd veterinarian will be the best resource in determining prevention and treatment options.
Zoetis offers Dectomax®-CA1 Injectable (doramectin injection), the only nonprescription conditionally approved parasite control product labeled for prevention and treatment of infestations caused by NWS larvae in cattle and for prevention of reinfestation for 21 days.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the emergency use of the approved/conditionally approved products Dectomax/Dectomax-CA1 for the following indications:
- The prevention and treatment of infestations caused by Cochliomyia hominivorax larvae (myiasis) in dairy cattle (lactating dairy cows, dry dairy cows, and replacement dairy heifers 20 months of age and older), except for calves to be processed for veal.
- The prevention of infestations caused by hominivorax larvae (myiasis) in swine, sheep, except for lactating sheep, and deer.
- The prevention of infestations caused by hominivorax larvae (myiasis) in horses 1 year old and older.
Please refer to the following fact sheets for additional information:
EUA - Dairy Cattle, Swine, Sheep and Deer Fact Sheet
EUA - Horse Fact Sheet
For more information on NWS, the current conditional approval and the EUA for Dectomax/Dectomax-CA1, visit zoetisus.com/NewWorldscrewworm.
Dectomax-CA1 is conditionally approved by FDA pending a full demonstration of effectiveness under NADA 141-616.
Important Information:
Consult your veterinarian for assistance in the diagnosis, treatment, and control of parasitism.
Dectomax-CA1 Injectable (Cattle only), as authorized under the Conditional Approval for use against New World screwworm, has a 35-day pre-slaughter withdrawal period. Do not use in calves to be processed for veal. Do not use in female dairy cattle 20 months of age or older, except under the conditions of the Emergency Use Authorization. Use in dogs may result in fatalities.
Dectomax/Dectomax-CA1 Injectable Emergency Use Authorization, authorized for the duration of the emergency declaration, does not provide full or conditional approval, but the Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has determined that Dectomax/Dectomax-CA1 may be effective and safe. Dectomax/Dectomax-CA1 Injectable, as authorized under the Emergency Use Authorization for use against New World screwworm, has a 35-day pre-slaughter withdrawal period for lactating dairy cattle, dry dairy cattle, replacement dairy heifers, sheep and deer, and a 24-day pre-slaughter withdrawal period for swine. Treated calves and calves born to treated cows should not be processed for veal. Withhold milk from dairy cattle for 468 hours (19.5 days) after treatment has ended. Not for use in lactating sheep. Not for use in horses less than 1 year of age.
About Zoetis
Zoetis is the world’s leading animal health company, driven by a singular purpose: to nurture our world and humankind by advancing care for animals. With a legacy of nearly 75 years, Zoetis continues to pioneer ways to predict, prevent, detect, and treat animal illness, supporting veterinarians, livestock producers, and pet owners in over 100 countries. We integrate deep scientific expertise, data-driven R&D, advanced manufacturing, and commercial excellence to deliver meaningful innovation across medicines, vaccines, diagnostics, biopharmaceuticals, and digital solutions. Guided by our vision to be the most trusted and valued animal health company, Zoetis is committed to setting new standards for the future of animal care through innovation, customer obsession, and purpose-driven colleagues. To learn more, visit Zoetis.com.
# # #
All trademarks are the property of Zoetis Services LLC or a related company or a licensor unless otherwise noted.
© 2026 Zoetis Services LLC. All rights reserved. DMX-00261
Media:
Jennifer Albano
1-862-399-0810 (o)
jennifer.albano@zoetis.com
Laura Panza
1-973-975-5176 (o)
laura.panza@zoetis.com