Sheep scab: how to spot and report the disease
How to spot sheep scab, what to do if you suspect it and control measures to prevent its spread.
Applies to England, Scotland and Wales
In Scotland sheep scab is a notifiable disease. That means if you suspect it you must tell the Animal and Plant Agency (APHA) immediately. Failure to do so is an offence. In England, Wales and Scotland local authorities can force you to treat your sheep or take other action if the disease is present in your flock and you don’t take appropriate steps.
Sheep scab only affects sheep. Humans aren’t affected.
The disease is currently present in Great Britain.
How to spot sheep scab
Sheep scab is caused by mites living in sheep’s fleeces or hair. The mites and their faeces cause intense itching which can lead to sheep:
- rubbing and scratching against fence posts
- nibbling and biting at their fleeces
That means you should look out for:
- dirty areas of fleece from scratching hair, especially behind the shoulder
- clean areas of fleece, where sheep have nibbled
- broken areas of fleece on the sides of sheep from biting and scratching
Affected sheep can be extremely sensitive to being touched. They may respond by nibbling.
Affected sheep may also become dull and depressed and stand apart from the rest of the flock.
Other skin conditions in sheep cause similar affects to sheep scab. You should seek advice from a vet as soon as possible.
How sheep scab is spread
Sheep scab is mainly spread by direct contact between sheep.
The mites that cause the disease can also be picked up from fences, posts and trees that infected sheep rub against.
Mites can also be spread on the clothing and equipment of sheep handlers.
Preventing and controlling sheep scab
Preventing sheep scab
You should practise strict biosecurity on your premises.
If you suspect sheep scab
Prompt treatment is required. Contact your vet for advice.
In Scotland you must also tell your nearest APHA office immediately.
If sheep scab is confirmed
Local authorities have the power to force you to treat your sheep or take other action if one of your animals has sheep scab and you do not take appropriate action.
In Scotland a local authority or APHA inspector can also make you pay for a vet to inspect your sheep if he or she suspects the disease is present among your flock.
Further information on prevention and control
What happens when a notifiable disease is suspected or confirmed
Legislation relating to sheep scab
The Sheep Scab Order 1997 gives local authorities powers to control the disease if owners of affected sheep don’t take appropriate measures voluntarily.
The Sheep Scab (Scotland) Order 2010 makes the disease notifiable in Scotland.
Last updated 1 October 2014 + show all updates
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AHVLA documents have been re-assigned to the new Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).
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First published.