Researchers are working to develop a vaccine that could help protect cattle from New World screwworm, a destructive parasite that poses a serious threat to livestock health and the U.S. cattle industry. Animal health company Medgene is partnering with the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research (FFAR) on a nearly $500,000 project to develop and test a vaccine for cattle.
New World screwworm larvae feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals, causing severe wounds and tissue damage. If left untreated, infestations can become life-threatening, with affected livestock potentially dying within seven to 14 days.
The research effort aims to provide another tool for protecting cattle as concerns about the parasite’s potential economic impact continue.
Vaccine Research Targets New World Screwworm
Medgene, an animal health company based in South Dakota, is working with FFAR to advance vaccine development and testing. The nearly $500,000 project will focus on evaluating a potential vaccine designed to protect cattle against the parasite.
A successful vaccine could add an important layer of protection for producers, complementing surveillance, animal health monitoring and other measures used to prevent and manage infestations.
New World screwworm is particularly concerning because the larvae can damage living tissue rather than feeding only on dead material. Infestations can worsen quickly, making early detection and prompt treatment critical to protecting affected animals.
Research into prevention tools is an important part of preparing the livestock industry to respond to the parasite and reduce potential losses.
Screwworm Threatens Billions in Economic Activity
According to FFAR, New World screwworm threatens more than $100 billion in U.S. economic activity tied to the cattle and livestock industries.
That potential impact extends beyond individual animal losses. A serious outbreak could create additional costs for livestock producers and affect the broader supply chain through animal health management, movement restrictions and other response measures.
Developing effective prevention strategies could help reduce those risks and strengthen the industry’s preparedness.
The Medgene and FFAR partnership represents an investment in research aimed at protecting cattle health and supporting the long-term stability of U.S. livestock production. However, the vaccine remains under development and testing, and additional research will be needed to determine its effectiveness and potential application.
As researchers work toward new prevention options, producers will continue to have an important role in monitoring cattle and seeking veterinary assistance when suspicious wounds or possible screwworm infestations are identified.
Listen to the accompanying report for more on the Medgene and FFAR partnership and efforts to develop a vaccine against New World screwworm.