A flesh-eating parasite is back, and the FDA is rushing a new drug to save our pets.

Officials issued an emergency order after the New World screwworm was found in pets across two states.

Imagine a tiny fly that can destroy a healthy pet from the inside out in just days.

That nightmare is becoming real for some pet owners in the Southwest.

WHAT HAPPENED

The FDA just gave the green light to a new drug to fight the New World screwworm.

This parasite eats the living flesh of warm-blooded animals.

It was mostly gone from the U.S. for decades, but it has returned.

Health officials found the first cases in New Mexico.

A second state also has cases, but officials have not named it yet.

The drug aims to stop the bug from spreading and killing more pets.

What the evidence shows

• Cases confirmed in New Mexico and one other state.
• The drug is for dogs and cats.
• Screwworms lay eggs in tiny open wounds.
• The larvae eat living tissue, not dead skin.
• This is the first emergency use for this specific drug.

THE BIGGER QUESTION

Why is this parasite back now?

We spent millions of dollars to get rid of it in the 1960s.

Seeing it return makes us wonder if our borders or the changing weather are helping pests move back into the country.

THE OTHER SIDE

Some experts worry about how fast the drug was approved.

They want to make sure it is safe for all breeds of dogs and cats.

The FDA says the risk of the parasite is much higher than the risk of the drug.

WHAT HAPPENS NOW

Pet owners should check their animals for any small cuts or sores.

If you see something odd, call a vet right away.

This drug will soon be at clinics in areas where the bug has been found.

WHAT WE STILL DON'T KNOW

1. Which state besides New Mexico has found the parasite?
2. How did the flies get past the safety zones in the south?
3. How much will the new drug cost for pet owners?

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SOURCE NOTE: Based on reporting from the New York Post. All medical claims are based on FDA filings.