By Shelby Shank
Field Editor

The U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for a topical spray that may help prevent and treat New World screwworm (NWS) infestations.

The authorization allows the use of F10 Antiseptic Wound Spray with Insecticide, a topical solution containing benzalkonium chloride, polyhexanide and cypermethrin.

Based on available scientific evidence, the FDA believes the product may be effective in preventing and treating NWS infestations in several species. These include cattle, horses, sheep, goats and deer, as well as raptors and other wild birds, pet birds and captive wild or exotic mammals.

The product may not be used in domestic dogs and cats.

The authorization marks the first time the FDA has allowed a product for NWS prevention or treatment across multiple species.

The FDA evaluated human food safety considerations and concluded that the food products obtained from treated animals are safe for human consumption when the terms and conditions of use granted by the EUA are followed, including the withdrawal period and milk discard time.

Cattle, goats and sheep must not be slaughtered for human consumption within 30 days of treatment. Milk taken from cows, goats or sheep during treatment and for 10 days after treatment, must not be used for human consumption.

A withdrawal period has not been established for this product in pre-ruminating calves. Treated calves and calves born to treated cows must not be processed for veal.

For non-domesticated species, like deer, elk, antelope and nilgai, use the product only when there is a reasonable certainty that the treated animal will not be harvested for human consumption within 30 days of treatment.

Detailed product information about F10 Antiseptic Wound Spray with Insecticide can be found in the fact sheet.

F10 Antiseptic Wound Spray with Insecticide is available over the counter without a prescription.

This EUA will be effective until it is revoked, or the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary terminates the declaration that the potential public health emergency presented by NWS justifies the emergency use authorization of animal drugs for NWS.