FDA gives emergency approval to new screwworm treatment for dogs and cats

[00:00:00]Amid concerns about the New World screwworm, there's a new way to protect your pets now available. The FDA has granted emergency authorization for an over-the-counter drug that's aimed at killing most of the parasitic fly larvae within hours. The tiny but mighty fly does not bite. Females lay eggs in open areas like wounds, eyes, and ears, and then the larvae feed on the tissue of the host. This is a huge threat to the cattle industry and so are there's been seven cases nationwide. Six from cattle in South Texas and one from New Mexico involving a dog. Now, to see if your pet is infected, experts say check open wounds. Look for discharge or foul odor.

[00:00:46]Pay attention to behavior. If your pet is more sensitive to touch, they may be in discomfort. If your pet is showing any of those symptoms, immediately contact your vet.