A study of sheep scab in Northern Ireland including detection and identifying barriers to control

• DOI: 10.1002/vro2.70003
• Publication Date: 2024-12-24T04:40:05Z
• Authors: Paul Crawford; Sharon Verner; Sam Strain; Adewale Henry Ade...; Aurélie Aubry; Stewart Burgess
• Keywords: Biosecurity; Flock; Apple scab

Abstract Background Sheep scab, caused by the highly infectious Psoroptes ovis mite, is considered to be endemic in Northern Ireland, although little investigation has been reported. A pilot project was undertaken engage farmers, confirm cases with diagnostic methods and identify specific barriers control, aim of informing future control programmes. Methods Through farmers self‐reporting suspected outbreaks, on‐farm risk assessments clinical investigations were carried out farm's veterinary surgeon, who utilised light microscopy serological testing diagnose scab. Treatment then provided where macrocyclic lactones (MLs) utilised, follow‐up attempted. Results scab identified 60 flocks across all six counties Ireland. Serological proved essential uncovering infestation failed mites, or no suitable lesions existed scrape. Where MLs used, incomplete. Furthermore, four resampled still showed a positive result. Barriers better included poor quarantine arrangements preventative treatment strategies that ultimately ineffective. Conclusions The demonstrated willing efforts, they appreciated support managing outbreaks recognised need for coordinated effort Greater awareness biosecurity needed among farmers. Facilitation farmer‐driven activities urgently needed, alongside greater understanding scale disease impact ML failure can have on dissemination through national Ireland flock.