Preventing sheep scab: UFU guidance for responsible farm practices

UFU deputy president, Clement Lynch

The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) is urging sheep producers to remain vigilant for signs of sheep scab as the risk of the highly contagious disease increases with the movement of sheep between farms and livestock marts.

Sheep scab, which is a notifiable disease in Northern Ireland meaning cases must be reported to DAERA under The Sheep Scab Order (NI) 1970, spreads easily through direct contact between sheep, shared handling facilities and contaminated equipment, resulting in serious welfare concerns and financial losses for affected flocks.

UFU deputy president, Clement Lynch, said, “Sheep scab remains one of the biggest animal health challenges facing our sheep sector and it is something farmers cannot afford to become complacent about. As sheep begin to move more frequently between farms and through livestock marts, the risk of transmission increases, making good biosecurity more important than ever.

“Simple measures, such as quarantining incoming stock, checking sheep regularly for signs of scab and seeking veterinary advice at the earliest opportunity, can make a significant difference in preventing the disease from spreading.

“We are also encouraging farmers to work closely with their veterinary surgeries to ensure the correct treatment is used. Responsible use of medicines is vital if we are to protect the effectiveness of the treatment options available and safeguard flock health into the future.”

Mr Lynch added, “By remaining vigilant and taking prompt action where there are concerns, farmers can help protect not only their own flocks but also the wider sheep industry.”

The UFU is reminding farmers that the mites responsible for sheep scab are not always visible to the naked eye and that clinical signs, including persistent itching, rubbing and wool loss, may not become apparent until several weeks after infection. Blood testing is available to help confirm the presence of the disease where there is uncertainty.

Anyone who suspects sheep scab in their flock should contact their private veterinary practitioner as soon as possible to ensure prompt diagnosis and responsible treatment, helping to minimise the impact of the disease and reduce the risk of it spreading to neighbouring flocks.