News Releases

Home  |  Programs  |  Divisions  |  Links  |  About Us  |  Contact Us

News Release 2-1-2002

Return to 2002 News Releases

COMMISSIONER OF AGRICULTURE URGES SCRAPIE TESTING

Commissioner of Agriculture Gus R. Douglass today urged the state’s sheep and goat producers to consider having their breeding males tested for susceptibility to scrapie, a type of transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE) similar to mad cow disease. Although rare, TSEs are always fatal, and may be linked to human fatalities as well.

“Scrapie costs America’s sheep and goat producers an estimated $20-$25 million annually,” said Commissioner Douglass. “It now appears that susceptibility for scrapie is inherited. However, goat and sheep owners may be able to breed this trait out of offspring through a simple blood test of breeding males.” Those purchasing new sheep and goats should consider purchasing only males tested and shown to be free of this genetic weakness, he added.

According to State Veterinarian Dr. Lewis Thomas, “Using a male with the correct amino acids in specific locations on the genes will be a great stride in the elimination of scrapie in West Virginia, as well as the rest of the United States.” He also noted that the test requires veterinarians to draw only 2-3 cc of blood from the animal and costs only $17. Once the blood is drawn, veterinarians can call testing company Gene Check at 800-822-6740 for mailing instructions.

“Preventing, controlling and eliminating animal diseases is one of our top missions at the Department of Agriculture,” Commissioner Douglass said. “Our efforts to eradicate scrapie from our sheep and goat populations will only strengthen our posture in disease control.”

For more information, contact the Department of Agriculture’s Animal Health Division, 304/558-2214.

Return to 2002 News Releases

Home  |  Programs  |  Divisions  |  Links  |  About Us  |  Contact Us

©2001, 2002 West Virginia Department of Agriculture, All Rights Reserved

Contact the Webmaster