Scrapie Epidemiology
The incidence and distribution in Montana and elsewhere, along with the information regarding the spread of the disease.
Incidence in Montana*
The first laboratory confirmed case of scrapie in Montana was found in 2000 in a 3 ½ year old ram located on a small farm in southwestern Montana. A second case was found in 2001, and a third case in 2002. As of May 31, 2004 - Montana had 1 confirmed case of Scrapie in FY 2004.
*Source: APHIS - Monthly Report Prepared by National Center for Animal Health Programs.
Incidence in United States
The presence of scrapie in the United States also prevents the export of breeding stock, semen, and embryos to many other countries.
The National Center for Animal Health Programs Eradication and Surveillance Team keeps statistics on Scrapie infection throughout the United States. For the latest infection rates click on the link below.
Spread of Scrapie (Transmission)*
The agent responsible for scrapie and other TSEs is smaller than the smallest known virus and is not completely understood. The agent is thought to be spread most commonly from ewe to her offspring through the placenta and placental fluids. It appears that the breed and individual genetics of the sheep affects their susceptibility to scrapie.
In the laboratory, the scrapie agent has been transmitted to other animals (hamsters, mice, rats, voles, gerbils, mink, cattle, and some species of monkeys) by inoculation. There is no scientific evidence to indicate that scrapie poses a risk to human health. There is no epidemiologic evidence that scrapie of sheep and goats is transmitted to humans, such as through contact on the farm, at slaughter plants, or butcher shops.
*Source: Animal and Plant Health inspection Service (APHIS), http://www.aphis.usda.gov
