Psoroptic mange in cattle

The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is warning farmers that there is a risk that psoroptic mange could be introduced to Northern Ireland following confirmation of the disease in Wales.

Following diagnosis of the disease in a number of farms in Wales, the Department has written to importers and breed societies advising them to consider the risks of importing potentially infected animals and the impact to the local Industry as a whole.

Psoroptic mange is a severe and debilitating skin disease of cattle caused by an infestation of mites. Cases had been previously reported in continental Europe and the USA but prior to the current outbreaks in Wales, psoroptic mange had not been detected in the UK since the 1980s.

As well as the welfare implications of psoroptic mange, the varying levels of success in treating the cases with current licensed treatments increases the economic impact of the disease. This is particularly relevant in dairy herds, due to the significant milk withdrawal periods associated with such treatments.

Clinical signs of psoroptic mange are more commonly seen in the autumn and winter although it may be difficult to spot the disease in the early stages. Symptoms include severe skin disease with scab formation along the back shoulders and tail head, intense itching, weight loss and if skin lesions are extensive, death. Spread can occur by direct animal to animal contact or contact with infested buildings or equipment which includes markets and livestock lorries.

Farmers suspecting that their cattle have psoroptic mange should consult their veterinary surgeon as treatment is not straightforward. Failure to kill the mites will lead to a prolonged and more serious disease outbreak and increase the risk of spread to other animals on the farm or other herds.

It is essential that farmers take the risk from this disease seriously. Experience from other European countries has shown that it is possible for psoroptic mange to become the most common skin disease in cattle with severe production losses as a consequence.

Notes to Editors:

1. Further information on psoroptic mange is available form the DARD website http://www.dardni.gov.uk/index/animal-health/animal-diseases/pscoroptic_mange.htm

2. Psoroptic mange is not notifiable to DARD.

3. The ‘Don’t Import’ advice is already current with regard to the risks associated with importing animals from bluetongue affected countries.

4. All media queries should be directed to the DARD Press Office on 028 9052 4619. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.