A FREE testing service for sheep scab and lice is being offered by the Veterinary Laboratories Agency, following concern about the innacurate diagnosis between the two.
Samples received up to February 28, 2004, will be examined free where ectoparasitic disease is suspected. The service is aimed at encouraging farmers to seek veterinary advice before treatment if they suspect infestations in their flock.
Farmers interested in taking part should discuss with their vet the appropriate samples to submit to VLA regional laboratories.
The initiative, funded by Defra, follows incidents where sheep farmers have failed to apply the correct treatment to sheep with the itchiness which is a sign for both infestations.
A definitive laboratory diagnosis is critical for the appropriate course of treatment. The wrong treatment has compromised animal welfare and is causing concern that it could have an impact on parasitic drug resistance.
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