WHAT HAPPENED: NCC, along with the National Turkey Federation, U.S. Poultry & Egg Association, and United Egg Producers, submitted joint comments to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) supporting approval of NovoFly™, a new tool to fight New World Screwworm, a devastating parasitic fly that threatens American livestock and poultry.
BACKGROUND: The New World Screwworm was successfully eliminated from the United States in the 1960s using similar sterile insect techniques. However, the pest still exists in parts of South and Central America, creating an ongoing risk of reintroduction. Having improved tools ready ensures America can respond quickly and effectively if needed.
WHAT IT IS: NovoFly™ is a genetically modified strain of the New World Screwworm that produces only male flies. These sterile males would be released in targeted areas to mate with wild female flies, preventing them from reproducing.
WHY IT MATTERS: While currently most associated with cattle, New World Screwworm is a flesh-eating parasite that can attack other livestock, poultry, and even humans. The screwworm was eliminated from the U.S. decades ago, but there is always a risk it could return from other countries.
WHAT’S NEXT: EPA is reviewing the application for both regular approval and emergency use authorization. The poultry industry will continue to support science-based tools that protect America’s food supply and farm families who depend on healthy livestock and poultry.
