NEW INITIATIVE ENCOURAGING FARMERS TO COMBAT SHEEP SCAB AND LICE INFESTATIONS

Originally from: mona parr
                        
Concern about the inaccurate diagnosis between sheep scab and lice and subsequent inappropriate treatment has prompted the Veterinary Laboratories Agency to offer a free testing service for farmers worried that their flocks have been infected.

The VLA initiative, funded by Defra, is aimed at encouraging farmers to promote better standards of animal welfare and for them to seek veterinary advice before treatment if they suspect sheep scab or lice infestations in their flock.

Samples received between December 1, 2003 and February 28, 2004, will be examined free of charge where ectoparasitic disease is suspected. Farmers interested in taking part in the initiative should discuss with their veterinary surgeons the appropriate samples to submit to VLA regional laboratories.

The England and Wales initiative follows recent incidents where sheep farmers have failed to apply the correct treatment when confronted with pruritic (itchy) sheep, which is a sign for both scab and lice infestations.

The distinction between sheep scab (Psoroptes ovis) and lice infestation (Bovicola ovis) is often difficult to recognise by clinical signs alone and a definitive laboratory diagnosis is critical for the appropriate course of treatment.

Incorrect treatment has compromised animal welfare and is causing concern that the incorrect use of antiparasitic products in the long-term could have an impact on parasitic drug resistance.

Notes for editors

1 The Veterinary Laboratories Agency provides all sectors of the animal health industry with animal disease surveillance, diagnostic services and veterinary research. Based at Addlestone, Surrey, the VLA has 15 other regional laboratories covering England, Scotland and Wales, employing just over 1,200 staff. The VLA is an Executive Agency of DEFRA and its mission is to safeguard public and animal health through world class veterinary research and surveillance of farmed livestock and wildlife. Further information can be found on the VLA's website at <A HREF="http://www.defra.gov.uk/corporate/vla">http://www.defra.gov.uk/corporate/vla</A>

2 Sheep scab remains a significant welfare issue. There has been an increase in both sheep scab and lice infestations of flocks since compulsory dipping was stopped in the early 1990's. The VLA continues to support the State Veterinary Service and local authorities with the enforcement of the Sheep Scab Order 1997 and by post-mortem examination of animals as part of regional farm welfare investigations.

3 The Sheep Scab Initiative, supported by NFU Scotland, is working to reduce the number of sheep scab outbreaks in Scotland. The Scottish Agricultural College (SAC) provides free laboratory testing.

4 A letter for publication on the issue has been sent to the Veterinary Record.

5 Last year, VLA regional laboratories offered free ectoparasite testing under the endemic disease project (ED1100) for a three month period. This resulted in a modest increase in submissions.

6 The initiative has the support of the Sheep Veterinary Society.