Source: Texas Agriculture
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller is urging the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to issue an Emergency Use Authorization allowing ivermectin to be added to medicated livestock feed as part of the response to the expanding New World screwworm outbreak. While the FDA recently authorized injectable ivermectin for affected livestock, Miller argues that feed-based treatment would provide a more practical solution for protecting large, free-ranging cattle herds and susceptible wildlife, including deer.
The proposal, submitted on behalf of the Texas Grain and Feed Association, calls for expedited federal approval, appropriate dosing guidelines, and coordination with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Feed manufacturers say they are prepared to begin production immediately if authorization is granted. Miller continues to advocate for a comprehensive strategy that includes sterile fly releases, enhanced surveillance, inspections, injectable treatments, and feed-based medications, emphasizing that rapid action is essential to protect livestock, wildlife, ranchers, and the nation’s food supply.