Scrapie Eradication Program

Scrapie is a fatal, degenerative disease affecting the central nervous system of sheep and goats. It is among a number of diseases classified as transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSE). Infected flocks can experience significant production losses.

As of November 19, 2001, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has established a new regulation regarding interstate movement, identification and indemnity requirements for sheep and goats as part of the New Scrapie Eradication Program. Detailed information regarding this regulation, and about Scrapie the disease and all the aspects of the National Scrapie Program can be found on the USDA, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), Veterinary Services (VS) website.

Regulations concerning Scrapie can be downloaded by using this link https://eregulations.ct.gov/eRegsPortal/Browse/RCSA/Title_22Subtitle_22-278-A_HTML/

The regulations require the official identification of all sheep and goats prior to leaving a premise. The purpose of identifying all sheep and goats is to provide a system for traceback and trace forward of Scrapie positive or exposed sheep and goats.

Veterinarians and, sheep and goat owners can obtain official Scrapie identification tags from the USDA by calling 1-866-USDA-TAG. There is no cost to the producer if tags are ordered through USDA. USDA’s website concerning sheep and goat identification can be found here https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/animal-disease-information/sheep-and-goat-health/national-scrapie-eradication-program/CT_To_Order_Ear_Tags (note: CT requires all sheep and goats to be officially identified)