Sheep Scab

Sheep scab is caused by a mite (Psoroptes ovis). It is transmitted by direct contact with infected sheep or contaminated objects or from areas where infected sheep have recently been present. The scab mites live on the surface of the skin causing an allergy to their droppings. It is this allergic reaction that causes the sheep to scratch.

Latest Developments

Proposed actions on the way forward to tackle sheep scab in Wales

The Minister for Rural Affairs agreed the proposed actions for the Welsh Government to take forward to help tackle sheep scab in Wales. These actions were prioritised into short, medium and longer term actions. The short to medium-term actions include, for example:

• the provision of specific guidance for Local Authorities on the enforcement of the Sheep Scab Order 1997;
• production of a training leaflet on diagnosis;
• a review of the information currently provided by the Welsh Government on the issue of sheep scab; and
• general awareness raising.  

The longer term actions focus on the need for further consideration to be given to making changes to legislation. As a result work will focus on gathering further evidence on the number of confirmed cases of sheep scab in Wales. And monitoring the impact of having sheep scab as a National Priority in the Local Authority Framework Agreements.

Sheep scab consultation workshops

In November 2008, the Minister for Rural Affairs agreed to consult with key stakeholders to gather views on proposed measures for tackling sheep scab in Wales.  To take this forward, three consultation workshops were held at venues in Brecon, Carmarthen and Llanberis.  

The overall aims of the workshops were to identify why sheep scab is still a problem. Also to focus in particular on what actions can be taken forward by stakeholders to tackle this long standing issue.  

The information gathered at the workshops has now been collated and a summary of the findings is available.

Useful information

The Sheep Scab Order 1997 (external link - English only)

Further information about controlling sheep scab can be found on the Sustainable Control of Parasites (SCOPS) page (external link - English only).