are goats affected by sheep scab
In the U.K., where sheep scab is endemic, neither the disease nor the mites appear to be transmitted from sheep to cattle or goats. Geographic Distribution Sheep scab has been eradicated from Australia, New Zealand, Scandinavia, the U.S. and Canada, but it can still be found in many other countries. © 2009 page 1 of 4 Sheep Scab Psoroptes ovis Infestation Last Updated: September 2009 Importance Sheep scab is a contagious, highly pruritic disease caused by the mite Psoroptes ovis. Affected sheep develop large, yellowish, scaly, crusted lesions, accompanied by damage to the wool and hide. Sheep scab is a very contagious disease, caused by mites feeding on the surface layers of the sheep's skin. Severe itching occurs, wool or hair falls out in patches, and the skin becomes reddened, crusted with scabs and sore. The P. ovis variant that causes sheep scab, a severe disease, is reportable in many countries. Species Affected Sheep scab is a disease of domesticated sheep (Ovis aries). Bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis) are also susceptible. Soremouth is the most common skin disease affecting sheep (and goats). It is a highly contagious viral infection that can also produce painful human infections. The virus causes scab formation on the skin, usually around the mouth, nostrils, eyes, mammary gland and vulva. Sheep scab is an animal welfare concern due to the pain and irritation caused by the mites. Etiology Sheep scab is caused by Psoroptes ovis, a mite (arthropod) in the family Psoroptidae (Order Astigmata). Various Brucella species affect sheep, goats, cattle, pigs, dogs, and other animals. In infected ruminants, brucellosis commonly causes abortion during the second half of gestation. Sheep are less susceptible than cattle, and brucellosis is not considered a common cause of abortion in sheep. Etiology Sheep scab is caused by Psoroptes ovis, a mite (arthropod) in the family Psoroptidae (Order Astigmata). Psoroptes mites have traditionally been separated into species based on their host and body site preferences, and the morphology of the male mites. Parasites common to sheep or goats include lice, keds, and mites. External parasites are especially common in the winter when sheep or goats are in closer confinement. Pour-on treatments are a common form of management for many external parasites, and are more effective on shorn sheep or short-haired goats. Psoroptic mange (ear mange) in goats and sheep is caused by P cuniculi, which is likely a variant of P ovis. P cuniculi typically infests the ears of goats but can spread to the head, neck, and body. Infestation of P cuniculi in goats can be common, with 80%–90% of a herd infested.
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