Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies (including Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy and Scrapie) in Northern Ireland
Information related to Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies (such as Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) and Scrapie) in Northern Ireland.
What is BSE?
- It is a brain disease of cattle for which there is no treatment or cure
- BSE is confirmed after death of the animal by examining it’s brain tissue
- BSE is notifiable and there is a DARD slaughter and compensation scheme in Northern Ireland
How many confirmed cases of BSE in cattle have there been in Northern Ireland?
Between 1988 and 2009, a total of 2186 cattle in 1514 herds have been confirmed as cases of BSE.
What is Scrapie?
- Scrapie is a fatal brain disease of sheep.
- Scrapie is notifiable
- Signs of scrapie should not be ignored, but should be tackled before it becomes a flock problem.
How many confirmed cases of scrapie in sheep have there been in Northern Ireland?
Between 2000 and 2009, a total of 53 sheep in 24 flocks have been confirmed with scrapie.
