Medgene and USDA Advance Experimental Vaccine to Combat New World Screwworm

BROOKINGS, S.D. — As threat levels surrounding New World Screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) elevate across North and Central American trade corridors, South Dakota-based biotech company Medgene, in coordination with the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), is advancing experimental vaccine platform technology designed to safeguard livestock.

The New World Screwworm fly larvae feed on living tissue of warm-blooded animals, causing severe myiasis, secondary infections, and death if left untreated. With agricultural agencies strengthening quarantine borders following detections in imported livestock along southern transit routes, the development of a targeted livestock vaccine represents a critical line of defense for the $100 billion North American beef and dairy sectors.

Leveraging Platform Tech for Parasitic Threats

Medgene’s proprietary RNA-based platform technology allows rapid development and manufacturing of veterinary biologics by using target antigens specific to pest biology. Unlike traditional chemical treatments—which require labor-intensive, repeated topical or systemic insecticide applications—a targeted vaccine aims to stimulate host immune responses that disrupt larval feeding and development.

The joint efforts focus on establishing safety profiles, dose efficacy, and field delivery methods suitable for commercial beef herds, dairy operations, and equestrian facilities.

Protecting Livestock and National Biosecurity

A resurgence of New World Screwworm would carry devastating economic impacts, requiring mandatory animal quarantines, restricted international trade, and extensive animal treatments.

“Developing biological countermeasures against high-consequence agricultural pests like the screwworm is vital to securing the livestock supply chain,” stated animal health research partners. “Integrating targeted vaccine platforms alongside sterile insect release programs gives producers a robust defense system.”