Scrapie Prevention and Control
Information about how to prevent and control further spread of Scrapie.
Prevention is based on maintaining a closed flock. New animals (especially females) introduced into the flock must come from reliable sources known to be free of scrapie. Individual state regulations vary, making it necessary to contact your state and federal veterinarian to determine the best procedures.
There is a federal scrapie control program called the Voluntary Scrapie Flock Certification Program (VSFCP). It is a cooperative effort among producers, industry representative, veterinarians, State animal health officials, and USDA APHIS. The program provides participating producers with the opportunity to protect their sheep from scrapie and to enhance the marketability of their animals through certifying their origin in scrapie-free flocks.
In addition, a federal mandatory program, called the Scrapie Eradication Uniform Methods and Rules, restricts the interstate movement of sheep from scrapie-infected and source flocks, and establishes permanent identification measures for animals.
