In response to an outbreak of the New World screwworm, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted emergency authorization for nitenpyram tablets, marking a significant step in combating this flesh-eating parasite. The outbreak has been confirmed in Texas and New Mexico, affecting cattle, goats, and dogs. New World screwworm larvae invade open wounds, posing a serious threat to livestock, wildlife, and household pets. The FDA's emergency-use authorization allows the treatment to be administered to dogs, puppies, cats, and kittens that are at least four weeks old and weigh a minimum of two pounds. The FDA emphasizes that the over-the-counter medication is designed to kill screwworm larvae quickly, with most parasites expected to die within hours of treatment. A second dose may be given six hours later if necessary, although veterinarians may still need to remove larvae and treat any damaged tissue. The FDA has also cautioned that the medication does not prevent reinfestation if animals remain exposed to screwworm flies. This emergency measure is part of a broader strategy to contain and eradicate the pest, which has been spreading from parts of Mexico and Central America into the United States. U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. highlighted the government's aggressive approach to stopping the spread of the New World screwworm, stating that the authorization of this treatment is a tactical tool in the ongoing containment strategy. The initial emergency declaration was signed in August 2025, establishing a proactive defense against the parasite. The FDA's fact sheet also stresses that the medicine is not intended for human use and should be kept away from children. The New World screwworm is a fly that lays eggs in open wounds on animals or their body openings, such as eyes, genitals, nose, or mouth. The current outbreak is concerning as it poses a risk not only to pets but also to livestock and wildlife. The U.S. had previously eradicated the screwworm in 1982 through a program that released sterile male flies to prevent reproduction. However, the recent resurgence of the parasite underscores the need for vigilance and effective treatment options to protect affected animals.