Natural transmission of BSE between sheep within an experimental flock
BSE has been transmitted naturally between sheep for the first time. This confirmation reinforces fears that the disease may have entered sheep on farms in Britain. Safety advisers have previously warned that any sheep with BSE entering the food chain would be potentially far more dangerous than a single cow, since there are far more parts of the animal that can carry infection. Now the Veterinary Laboratories Agency scientists have revealed that 2 ewes fed 5 milligrams of BSE-infected material had lambs that died of BSE after showing signs of infection. Their mothers had shown no outward signs of the disease at lambing, 1 showing them 73 days after lambing, and the other 198 days after. But it is still not certain that the lambs were infected while in the uterus, or shortly before or after lambing. The disease may have spread through the birthing fluids or in some other way. The evidence so far suggests this is far more likely than the lambs catching the disease from other apparently unaffected sheep. The sheep involved were of a genetic type that in lab tests previously appeared most susceptible to BSE. But it is unclear how many such sheep are in farms. Unfortunately at present there would be no way of identifying resistant sheep in time for them to go into food, while banning others. The fear about sheep has existed because, until the late 1980s, they were fed the same sort of feed as cattle. However if it was ever in sheep, there is no suggestion that it ever existed on a large scale. Officials have been worried that some BSE in sheep, if it existed, might have been masked by scrapie, not known to be dangerous to humans. The relatively small scale of the vCJD epidemic in humans so far might give some reassurance, given the size of an enormous BSE cattle epidemic. The Department of the Environment and Rural Affairs pointed out that nearly 2700 scrapie samples had been tested for BSE since 1998 with no sign of the disease, although 2 samples with anomalous results were still being tested, using mice. The UK Food Standards Agency has not placed any restrictions on the sale of sheep products (mutton, lamb and wool). For more information read the paper by J. Bellworthy et al., available at: http://veterinaryrecord.bvapublications.com/cgi/content/full/157/7/206 (Promed 8/19/05)
http://veterinaryrecord.bvapublications.com/cgi/content/full/157/7/206
WHAT about those atypical TSE sheep in VERMONT that were imported from Belgium?
WHAT about those atypical TSE cattle in Belgium?
THE USA imported atypical TSE to USA...TSS
Docket No, 04-047-l Regulatory Identification No. (RIN) 091O-AF46 NEW BSE SAFEGUARDS
snip...
NOT to forget the 'atypical' VERMONT USA' sheep scrapie/BSE/TSE?
back in 2000 with the testing conveniently ignored and put off once
again with animal
TSEs. Why I ask?
SCRAPIE ''ATYPICAL'' TSE IN SHEEP VERMONT UPDATE 2004
Greetings,
IN the year 2000, some sheep in Vermont were confiscated due to what
the USDA/APHIS said was an 'atypical TSE'.
WE were told there would be additional testing to confirm exactly what
TSE we were dealing with;
Release No. 0141.02
Ed Curlett (301) 734-3256
Jerry Redding (202) 720-6959
TESTING TO CONTINUE ON IMPORTED SHEEP CONFISCATED LAST YEAR
WASHINGTON, April 11, 2002 -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture today
announced that tests conducted on a flock of sheep confiscated last year
from a farm in Vermont confirm that two of the 125 sheep tested positive
for an atypical undifferentiated transmissible spongiform encephalopathy
(TSE) of foreign origin. The flock of 125 sheep was confiscated in March
2001 after four animals from an associated flock tested positive for TSE
in July 2000. USDA will continue to conduct additional tests to
determine the type of TSE in these sheep.
"These results confirm our previous conclusions were correct and that we
took the appropriate preventative actions in confiscating these
animals," said Bobby Acord, administrator of USDAs Animal and Plant
Health Inspection Service. "USDAs actions to confiscate, sample and
destroy these sheep were on target. As a result of our vigilance, none
of these confiscated animals entered the animal or human food supply."
The sheep, imported from Belgium and the Netherlands in 1996, were
placed under certain federal restrictions when they entered the country
as part of USDA's scrapie control efforts. In 1998, USDA learned that it
was likely that sheep from Europe were exposed to feed contaminated with
bovine spongiform encephalopathy. At that time, the state of Vermont, at
the request of USDA, imposed a quarantine on these flocks, which
prohibited slaughter or sale for breeding purposes.
On July 10, 2000, several sheep from the flock tested positive for a
TSE, a class of degenerative neurological diseases that is characterized
by a very long incubation period and a 100 percent mortality rate in
infected sheep. Two of the better known varieties of TSE are scrapie in
sheep and BSE in cattle. There is no evidence that scrapie poses a risk
to human health.
On July 14, 2000, USDA issued a declaration of extraordinary emergency
to acquire the sheep. This action was contested by the flock owners. A
federal district court judge ruled in favor of USDA based on the merits
of the case. The flock owners appealed to the Second Circuit Court
requesting a stay, which was denied. The sheep were confiscated by USDA
in March 2001 and transported to USDA's National Veterinary Services
Laboratories in Ames, Iowa, where they were humanely euthanized. Tissue
samples were collected from the sheep for diagnostic testing and USDA
will continue with additional tests which could take up to 2 - 3 years
to complete. In all, USDA has acquired 380 sheep from a total of three
flocks. All of the animals were humanely euthanized, sampled and
disposed and did not enter the animal or human food supply.
Our goal continues to be to prevent, detect and eradicate foreign animal
diseases to protect American agriculture, natural resources and
consumers," said Acord. "We will continue to utilize the scientific
results of these and other tests conducted during the last several years
to strengthen our extensive surveillance, monitoring and prevention
efforts."
For more information about USDAs ongoing surveillance, monitoring and
prevention efforts as it relates to this situation, please visit
www.aphis.usda.gov/oa/tse/index.html
#
SNIP...
-------- Original Message --------
Subject: Re: AW: [BSE-L] USDA did not test possible mad cows - Dr.
Detwiler, what about those sheep?
Date: Sun, 13 Jun 2004 11:27:24 -0500
From: "Terry S. Singeltary Sr."
Reply-To: Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy
To: [email protected]
References: <[email protected]> <[email protected]>
######## Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy #########
Greetings list members,
Thought I should let the list know that Dr. Detwiler kindly replied to my
question about the delayed 'atypical' TSE testing in the Vermont sheep and
tried to explain what caused the delay. If I interpreted it correctly,
seems it was the fault of the U.K. ;
-------- Original Message --------
Subject: Sheep
Date: Sat, 12 Jun 2004 14:26:04 EDT
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Mr. Singeltary.
I hope this finds you well. As you are aware I left the USDA last
year. I can only update you on the sheep before that time. Contact was
established with the UK on doing the bioassay studies. They agreed.
However, we were prioritized after their own needs, hence the delay. I
am aware that there are now additional labs in Europe running the mouse
bioassay strain typing. You will have to contact USDA for further word.
Linda Detwiler
=========
My reply to Dr. Detwiler;
-------- Original Message --------
Subject: Re: Sheep
Date: Sat, 12 Jun 2004 13:53:57 -0500
From: "Terry S. Singeltary Sr."
To: [email protected]
References: <[email protected]>
hello Dr. Detwiler,
thanks for your kind reply.
> However, we were prioritized after their own needs, hence the delay.
not sure i understand that?
> You will have to contact USDA for further word.
already done that, and there answer was;
>5/20/04
>
>Dear Mr. Singeltary,
>
>The Western blot tests on these animals were completed in April of this
>year. That means that we can begin the mouse inoculations. To get the
>results of the Western blot tests, you will need to submit a Freedom of
>Information Act request through our FOIA office. The FAX number there is
>301-734-5941.
>
>Have a nice day,
>
>Jim Rogers
>APHIS LPA
>
and with my previous attempts for information via the FOIA through
this administration (as you are probably very well aware of) they have
all been ignored/refused. so any further attempts would be fruitless i am
sure.
thanks anyway...
kindest regards,
Terry
[email protected] wrote:
> Mr. Singeltary.
snip...
TSS
Terry S. Singeltary Sr. wrote:
> ######## Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy
> #########
>
> Greetings Dr. Detwiler,
>
> glad to see you are still with us, you had become very silent lately.
> hope you are enjoying semi retirement.
>
> recently, i inquired through the BSE-L and via USDA official about
> those Vermont sheep via belgium which there was an Extraordinary
> Declaration of Emergency declared here in the USA due to
> atypical scrapie. The thread is;
>
> Confiscation of Sheep in Vermont and testing results ? Thu, 20 May 2004
> 12:10:03 -0500 "Terry S. Singeltary Sr." Bovine
> Spongiform Encephalopathy BSE-L
>
>
>
>> Imported
>> Belgium/Netherlands
>> Sheep Test Results
>> Background
>> Factsheet
>> Veterinary Services April 2002
>> APHIS
>
>
>
> snip...
>
>> Additional tests will be conducted to determine
>> exactly what TSE the animals haveBSE or scrapie.
>> These tests involve the use of bioassays that consist
>> of injecting mice with tissue from the infected animals
>> and waiting for them to develop disease. This testing
>> may take at least 2 to 3 years to complete.
>
>
>
> http://www.aphis.usda.gov/lpa/pubs/fsheet_faq_notice/fs_ahvtsheeptr.pdf
>
> DECLARATION OF EXTRAORDINARY EMERGENCY BECAUSE OF AN ATYPICAL T.S.E.
> (PRION DISEASE) OF FOREIGN ORIGIN IN THE UNITED STATES
>
> http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=2000_register&docid=fr20jy00-32
>
>
> DECLARATION OF EXTRAORDINARY EMERGENCY BECAUSE OF AN ATYPICAL T.S.E
> (PRION DISEASE) OF FOREIGN ORIGIN IN THE UNITED STATES [2]
>
> http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=2000_register&docid=fr20jy00-31
>
>
> or if those old urls dont work, go here;
>
> DECLARATION OF EXTRAORDINARY EMERGENCY BECAUSE OF AN ATYPICAL T.S.E
> (PRION DISEASE) OF FOREIGN ORIGIN IN THE UNITED STATES
> - Terry S.
> Singeltary Sr. 7/20/00 (0)
>
> [Federal Register: July 20, 2000 (Volume 65, Number 140)] [Notices]
> [Page 45018] >From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access
> [wais.access.gpo.gov] [DOCID:fr20jy00-32]
>
> -----------------------------------------------------------------------
>
> DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
>
> Office of the Secretary
>
> [Docket No. 00-072-1]
>
> Declaration of Extraordinary Emergency Because of an Atypical
> Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy (Prion Disease) of Foreign Origin
>
> A transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE) (prion disease) of
> foreign origin has been detected in the United States. It is different
> from TSE's previously diagnosed in the United States. The TSE was
> detected in the progeny of imported sheep. The imported sheep and
> their progeny are under quarantine in Vermont. Transmissible
> spongiform encephalopathies are degenerative fatal diseases that can
> affect livestock. TSE's are caused by similar, as yet uncharacterized,
> agents that usually produce spongiform changes in the brain.
> Post-mortem analysis has indicated positive results for an atypical
> TSE of foreign origin in four sheep in Vermont. Because of the
> potentially serious consequences of allowing the disease to spread to
> other livestock in the United States, it is necessary to seize and
> dispose of those flocks of sheep in Vermont that are affected with or
> exposed to the disease, and their germ plasm. The existence of the
> atypical TSE of foreign origin represents a threat to U.S. livestock.
> It constitutes a real danger to the national economy and a potential
> serious burden on interstate and foreign commerce. The Department has
> reviewed the measures being taken by Vermont to quarantine and
> regulate the flocks in question and has consulted with appropriate
> officials in the State of Vermont. Based on such review and
> consultation, the Department has determined that Vermont does not have
> the funds to compensate flock owners for the seizure and disposal of
> flocks affected with or exposed to the disease, and their germ plasm.
> Without such funds, it will be unlikely to achieve expeditious
> disposal of the flocks and germ plasm. Therefore, the Department has
> determined that an extraordinary emergency exists because of the
> existence of the atypical TSE in Vermont. This declaration of
> extraordinary emergency authorizes the Secretary to seize, quarantine,
> and dispose of, in such manner as he deems necessary, any animals that
> he finds are affected with or exposed to the disease in question, and
> their germ plasm, and otherwise to carry out the provisions and
> purposes of the Act of July 2, 1962 (21 U.S.C. 134-134h). The State of
> Vermont has been informed of these facts.
>
> Dated: This declaration of extraordinary emergency shall become
> effective July 14, 2000. Dan Glickman, Secretary of Agriculture. [FR
> Doc. 00-18367 Filed 7-19-00; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410-34-P
>
> http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=
> 2000_register&docid=fr20jy00-32 ================================
> [Federal Register: July 20, 2000 (Volume 65, Number 140)] [Notices]
> [Page 45018] >From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access
> [wais.access.gpo.gov] [DOCID:fr20jy00-31]
>
> ========================================================================
> Notices Federal Register
> ________________________________________________________________________
>
> This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains documents other than
> rules or proposed rules that are applicable to the public. Notices of
> hearings and investigations, committee meetings, agency decisions and
> rulings, delegations of authority, filing of petitions and
> applications and agency statements of organization and functions are
> examples of documents appearing in this section.
>
> ========================================================================
>
> [[Page 45018]]
>
> -----------------------------------------------------------------------
>
> DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
>
> Office of the Secretary
>
> [Docket No. 00-072-2]
>
> Declaration of Emergency Because of an Atypical Transmissible
> Spongiform Encephalopathy (Prion Disease) of Foreign Origin
>
> A transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE) (prion disease) of
> foreign origin has been detected in the United States. It is different
> from TSE's previously diagnosed in the United States. The TSE was
> detected in the progeny of imported sheep. The imported sheep and
> their progeny are under quarantine in Vermont. Transmissible
> spongiform encephalopathies are degenerative fatal diseases that can
> affect livestock. TSE's are caused by similar, as yet uncharacterized,
> agents that usually produce spongiform changes in the brain.
> Post-mortem analysis has indicated positive results for an atypical
> TSE of foreign origin in four sheep in Vermont. Because of the
> potentially serious consequences of allowing the disease to spread to
> other livestock in the United States, it is necessary to seize and
> dispose of those flocks of sheep in Vermont that are affected with or
> exposed to the disease, and their germ plasm. The existence of the
> atypical TSE of foreign origin represents a threat to U.S. livestock.
> It constitutes a real danger to the national economy and a potential
> serious burden on interstate and foreign commerce. APHIS has
> insufficient funds to carry out the seizure and disposal of animals
> and germ plasm necessary to eliminate this disease risk. These funds
> would be used to compensate the owners of the animals and germ plasm
> for their seizure and disposal in accordance with 21 U.S.C. 134a.
> Therefore, in accordance with the provisions of the Act of September
> 25, 1981, as amended (7 U.S.C. 147b), I declare that there is an
> emergency that threatens the livestock industry of this country and
> hereby authorize the transfer and use of such funds as may be
> necessary from appropriations or other funds available to agencies or
> corporations of the United States Department of Agriculture to seize
> and dispose of animals that are affected with or exposed to this TSE,
> and their germplasm, in accordance with 21 U.S.C. 134a.
>
> Dated: This declaration of emergency shall become effective July 14,
> 2000. Dan Glickman, Secretary of Agriculture. [FR Doc. 00-18368 Filed
> 7-19-00; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410-34-P
>
> I was told that ;
>
>
> -------- Original Message --------
> Subject: Re: hello Dr. Sutton...question please...scrapie...TSS
> Date: Thu, 20 May 2004 14:36:09 -0400
> From: [email protected].
> To: [email protected]
>
>
>
> Dear Mr. Singeltary,
>
> The Western blot tests on these animals were completed in April of this
> year. That means that we can begin the mouse inoculations. To get the
> results of the Western blot tests, you will need to submit a Freedom of
> Information Act request through our FOIA office. The FAX number there is
> 301-734-5941.
>
> Have a nice day,
>
> Jim Rogers
> APHIS LPA
> =========
>
>
> Dr. Detwiler, my question is, why have these very important test been
> delayed for so long when we were told they were to have been started
> some 2+ years ago?
>
> who made this call to delay these very important test and why ?
>
> thank you,
> with kindest regards,
>
> Terry
>
>
> Linda Detwiler wrote:
>
>> ######## Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy
>> #########
>>
snip...
######### http://mailhost-alt.rz.uni-karlsruhe.de/warc/bse-l.html ##########
WHAT ABOUT THE POTENTIAL FOR BSE IN SHEEP AND GOATS OR ANY OF THE
OTHER NEW ''ATYPICAL'' TSEs SHOWING UP?
02-Jun-04, 10:45
BSE IN SHEEP CONTINGENCY PLAN - CONSULTATION LAUNCH
Defra and the other UK Agriculture and Rural Affairs Departments today launched a consultation on the UK contingency plan on possible actions if BSE were confirmed in sheep.
http://www.wired-gov.net/WGLaunch.aspx?ARTCL=24789
The total prevalence of scrapie in the USA is really unknown.
SNIP...
https://web01.aphis.usda.gov/regpublic.nsf/0/eff9eff1f7c5cf2b87256ecf000df08d?OpenDocument
>> TODAY, i finally recieve this from SEAC about these so called
>> mouse bioassays that never took place on the Vermont sheep,
>> and it still looks like the ball was dropped by the USDA to me.
>> I guess like everything else they do, we will never know the truth...
>>
>>
>> -------- Original Message --------
>> Subject: re-85th Meeting of SEAC - 30.11.04
>> Date: Tue, 21 Dec 2004 16:56:55 -0000
>> From: "Barlow, Tom (SEAC)"
>> To: "'[email protected]'"
>>
>>
>>
>> Dear Mr Singeltary
>>
>> Thank you for you enquiry to the SEAC secretariat about mouse bioassays
>> commissioned by the USDA to investigate TSE cases in imported sheep.
>
>> After making a number of enquiries, it appears that Defra were not
>> involved
>> with this work. However, it is possible that a UK research
>> laboratory was
>> contacted by the USDA about such tests but I have been unable to find
>> out
>> any further information. You may wish to make further enquiries with
>> the
>> USDA.
>>
>> Yours sincerely
>>
>> Tom Barlow
>>
>> Dr Tom Barlow
>> Spongiform Encephalopathy Advisory Committee (SEAC) Secretariat
>> Area 108, 1A Page Street, London SW1P 4PQ
>>
>> Tel: 0207 904 6267
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: Terry S. Singeltary Sr. [mailto:[email protected]]
>> Sent: 02 December 2004 20:19
>> To: Dale, Tabitha J (SEAC)
>> Subject: re-85th Meeting of SEAC - 30.11.04
>>
Atypical Case of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy in an East-Flemish Cow in Belgium
http://veterinaryrecord.bvapublications.com/cgi/content/full/157/7/206
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON SCRAPIE
Chair: Dr. Jim Logan, Cheyenne, WY
Vice Chair: Dr. Joe D. Ross, Sonora, TX
Dr. Deborah L. Brennan, MS; Dr. Beth Carlson, ND; Dr. John R. Clifford, DC; Dr. Thomas F. Conner, OH; Dr. Walter E. Cook, WY; Dr. Wayne E. Cunningham, CO; Dr. Jerry W. Diemer, TX; Dr. Anita J. Edmondson, CA; Dr. Dee Ellis, TX; Dr. Lisa A. Ferguson, MD; Dr. Keith R. Forbes, NY; Dr. R. David Glauer, OH; Dr. James R. Grady, CO; Dr. William L. Hartmann, MN; Dr. Carolyn Inch, CAN; Dr. Susan J. Keller, ND; Dr. Allen M. Knowles, TN; Dr. Thomas F. Linfield, MT; Dr. Michael R. Marshall, UT; Dr. Cheryl A. Miller, In; Dr. Brian V. Noland, CO; Dr. Charles Palmer, CA; Dr. Kristine R. Petrini, MN; Mr. Stan Potratz, IA; Mr. Paul E. Rodgers, CO; Dr. Joan D. Rowe, CA; Dr. Pamela L. Smith, IA; Dr. Diane L. Sutton, MD; Dr. Lynn Anne Tesar, SD; Dr. Delwin D. Wilmot, NE; Dr. Nora E. Wineland, CO; Dr. Cindy B. Wolf, MN.
The Committee met on November 9, 2005, from 8:00am until 11:55am, Hershey Lodge and Convention Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania. The meeting was called to order by Dr. Jim Logan, chair, with vice chairman Dr. Joe D. Ross attending. There were 74 people in attendance.
The Scrapie Program Update was provided by Dr. Diane Sutton, National Scrapie Program Coordinator, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services (APHIS), Veterinary Services (VS). The complete text of the Status Report is included in these Proceedings.
Dr. Patricia Meinhardt, USDA-APHIS-VS-National Veterinary Services Laboratory (NVSL) gave the Update on Genotyping Labs and Discrepancies in Results. NVSL conducts investigations into discrepancies on genotype testing results associated with the Scrapie Eradication Program. It is the policy of the Program to conduct a second genotype test at a second laboratory on certain individual animals. Occasionally, there are discrepancies in those results. The NVSL conducts follow-up on these situations through additional testing on additional samples from the field and archive samples from the testing laboratories.
For the period of time from January 1, 2005, until October 15, 2005, there were 23 instances of discrepancies in results from 35 flocks. Of those 23 instances, 14 were caused by laboratory error (paperwork or sample mix-up), 3 results from field error, 5 were not completely resolved, and 1 originated from the use of a non-approved laboratory for the first test. As a result of inconsistencies, one laboratory's certification was revoked by APHIS-VS.
To reduce/eliminate these problems, the Program has placed additional quality requirements on the testing laboratories: additional review of final reports, additional coding systems for testing operations, strict follow-up and reports to NVSL on corrective actions, dual data entry systems, and more frequent inspections.
The Agricultural Research Services (ARS) Scrapie Research Update was given by Janet Alverson, USDA- ARS. Dr. Alverson reported on the effect of multiple births and fetal position within the uterus on PrP-Sc accumulation in fetal cotyledons. Fetal cotyledons of fetuses with
resistant genotypes can accumulate PrP-Sc when positioned next to a fetus of susceptible genotype with cotyledons positive for PrP-Sc accumulation.
Scrapie Surveillance Evaluation Working Group Update was presented by Tracey Lynn, Epidemiologist with the National Surveillance Unit, Center for Epidemiology and Animal Health (CEAH). The presentation provided a background on evaluation, a quick review of analyses completed to date by the scrapie surveillance evaluation working group, and some of the preliminary findings. The process of surveillance system evaluation is undertaken to assist a disease control program with identifying possible improvements to their surveillance system, and includes an assessment of the overall utility of the system, identification of potential gaps in coverage, and an evaluation of the overall performance of the system. The scrapie surveillance evaluation working group reviewed the structure and processes of the scrapie surveillance program, as well as various quality and effectiveness measures.
Overall, 98-99% of surveillance samples come from the Regulatory Scrapie Surveillance System (RSSS), so the RSSS system has been the primary focus of the evaluation process. The working group developed a flow chart indicating the flow of sheep through RSSS, which identified potential gaps in surveillance coverage, including custom kill plants and sheep being exported to Mexico. Spatial analyses can assist in identifying areas with high density sheep populations with lower levels of RSSS sampling. Identification compliance is being evaluated by reviewing reports from slaughter plants on the proportion of animals with appropriate identification. Additional analyses remain, including defining the most appropriate economic analyses, and comparing the surveillance system with developing surveillance standards. The working group hopes to have a draft written report for review by the end of the year.
Giving the Update on Scrapie Diagnostics and Susceptibility was Katherine O'Roarke, Research Microbiologist, USDA-ARS. "What's New in Scrapie" -- Biopsy sampling of the third eyelid or tonsillar lymphoid tissue is a useful live animal test for scrapie. The biopsy sample is examined for accumulation of the abnormal prion protein using immunohistochemistry. A joint project conducted by the Veterinary Laboratory Agencies and the Moredun Institute in the United Kingdom has developed an alternative technique in which tissue is collected from the narrow band of lymphoid tissue near the rectal-anal junction. The morphology of the lymphoid follicles is similar in the tonsil, retropharyngeal lymph nodes, third eyelid, and rectal-anal mucosal tissue. A report on more than 300 sheep in the United Kingdom (UK), prepared by Drs. Lorenzo Gonzalez and Jeffrey Martin, will describe the sensitivity, specificity, and optimal collection interval for this technique in a variety of breeds of British sheep. ARS has done a preliminary evaluation of the technique in US sheep. Samples of third eyelid and rectal-mucosal tissue were collected from 56 sheep. Forty-two (42) sheep had negative biopsies at both sites; most of these sheep have been necropsied and no PrP-d was found in retropharyngeal lymph node or tonsil, showing good agreement with the antemortem biopsies. Fourteen (14) sheep had positive rectal biopsy samples; of those, only 12 had positive eyelid biopsies. These sheep will be monitored for disease development. However, the protocol is identical for all samples and it is probable that these sheep represent false negative third eyelid results. Abstracts of reports on the UK studies indicate that sensitivity of the test was 70% in the UK; similar large scale testing on US sheep is necessary. The biopsy tissue is somewhat difficult to handle in the tissue processing laboratory and adaptation to an ELISA format may improve test performance.
Alexia McKnight, Assistant Professor of Radiology, University of Pennsylvania, reviewed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) diagnostics before the committee. A synopsis containing references is attached at the end of this report. Dr. McKnight asked the question, "could MRI be a cost-effective screening test, estimated at $25-30 each with results immediately available." The committee feels that it is not practical as compared to other alternatives currently available. However, the committee expressed interest in future reference to this technology.
Dr. Diane Sutton lead the Uniform Methods and Rules (UM&R) and Regulatory Issues Discussion. Several modifications to the UM&R were discussed. Eight issues were identified and communicated to the APHIS scrapie program coordinator. The committee acknowledged that APHIS and the industry is adequately addressing the year-to-year industry concerns.
Dr. Kris Petrini representing the North Central United States Animal Health Association District presented five recommendations to the Committee. During the discussions regarding these recommendations it was evident that all five issues had been addressed during the year at this Committee meeting.
The Committee approved a recommendation that USDA-APHIS-VS continue to provide indemnity funds for animals that have been designated for testing in Flocks Under Investigation as an alternative to third eyelid testing after consultation with the designated Scrapie Epidemiologist (DSE) and the Regional Area Epidemiologist (RAE).
The 2004 Resolutions along with their responses were reviewed by the Committee.
A Resolution concerning premises registration and identification was approved by the Committee and forwarded to the Committee on Nominations and Resolutions.
Committee on Scrapie
Status Report-Fiscal Year 2005: Cooperative State-Federal Scrapie Eradication Program
Submitted by Diane Sutton, DVM and Gary Ross, DVM
National Center for Animal Health Programs, APHIS, USDA
In Fiscal Year 2005 the Scrapie Eradication Program focused on: (1) utilization of a genetic based approach to flock clean-up plans; (2) cleaning up infected and source flocks; (3) tracing and testing exposed animals and flocks; (4) expansion of regulatory slaughter surveillance (RSSS); (5) conducting considtent state reviews, (6) producer education; (7) upgrading of the Scrapie National Generic Database and (8) publishing the updated Scrapie Eradication Uniform Methods and Rules (UM&R). The current Scrapie Eradication UM&R is posted at http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/nahps/scrapie/umr-scrapie-erad.pdf.
Consistent State Reviews
States must meet the requirements in 9 CFR 79.6 in order to move sheep and goats in interstate commerce with minimal restrictions. Twenty seven states have enacted the required identification rules, the remaining states have submitted a work plan that describes the steps that will be taken to comply and provided a timeline for completing significant milestones. USDA is conducting onsite scrapie program consistent state reviews and has completed reviews in 12 states. States must be in full compliance by the end of their current rule making cycle. States not in full compliance at that time will be removed from the consistent state list. Removal from the list would create a significant impact on the interstate movement of sheep and goats from those States.
Scrapie Flock Certification Program
As of September 30, 2005, there were 1,961 flocks participating in the Scrapie Flock Certification Program (SFCP). Of these flocks 188 were certified flocks, 1,770 were complete monitored flocks, and 3 were selective monitored flocks (figure 2). There were 209 flocks newly enrolled and 53 newly certified (13 with status dates in FY 2005 and 40 with status dates in previous years) in FY 2005 (figure 3).
Infected and Source Flocks
As of September 30, 2005, there were 105 scrapie infected and source flocks. There were a total of 165** new infected and source flocks reported for FY 2005. The total infected and source flocks that have been released in FY 2005 was 128. The ratio of infected and source flocks cleaned up or placed on clean up plans vs. new infected and source flocks discovered in FY 2005 was 1.03 : 1*. In addition 622 scrapie cases were confirmed and reported by the National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) in FY 2005, of which 130 were RSSS cases. Fifteen cases of scrapie in goats have been reported since 1990. The last goat case was reported in May 2005. Approximately 5,626 animals were indemnified comprised of 49% non-registered sheep, 45% registered sheep, 1.4% non-registered goats and 4.6% registered goats.
Regulatory Scrapie Slaughter Surveillance (RSSS)
RSSS was designed to utilize the findings of the Center for Epidemiology and Animal Health (CEAH) Scrapie: Ovine Slaughter Surveillance (SOSS) study. The results of SOSS can be found at http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/ceah/cahm/Sheep/sheep.htm . RSSS started April 1,
2003. It is a targeted slaughter surveillance program which is designed to identify infected flocks for clean-up. During FY 2005 collections increased by 32% overall and by 90% for black and mottled faced sheep improving overall program effectiveness and efficiency as demonstrated by the 26% decrease in percent positive black faced sheep compared to FY 2004. Samples have been collected from 62,864 sheep since April 1, 2003, of which results have been reported for 59,105 of which 209 were confirmed positive. During FY 2005, 33,137 samples were collected from 81 plants. There have been 130 NVSL confirmed positive cases (30 collected in FY 2004 and confirmed in FY 2005 and 100 collected and confirmed in FY 2005) in FY 2005. Face colors of these positives were 114 black, 14 mottled, 1 white and 1 unknown. The percent positive by face color is shown in the chart below.
Scrapie Testing
In FY 2005, 35,845 animals have been tested for scrapie: 30,192 RSSS; 4,742 regulatory field cases; 772 regulatory third eyelid biopsies; 10 third eyelid validations; and 129 necropsy validations (chart 9).
Animal ID
As of October 04, 2005, 103,580 sheep and goat premises have been assigned identification numbers in the Scrapie National Generic Database. Official eartags have been issued to 73,807 of these premises.
*This number based on an adjusted 12 month interval to accommodate the 60 day period for setting up flock plans.
http://www.usaha.org/committees/reports/2005/report-scr-2005.pdf
0208h023: UK exports of sheep, goats and sheep/goat meats and meat products (1988 - 2001)
http://www.vegsource.com/articles/sheep_exports.htm
just something else to ponder 20 or 30 years further down the road $$$
TSS
BSE has been transmitted naturally between sheep for the first time. This confirmation reinforces fears that the disease may have entered sheep on farms in Britain. Safety advisers have previously warned that any sheep with BSE entering the food chain would be potentially far more dangerous than a single cow, since there are far more parts of the animal that can carry infection. Now the Veterinary Laboratories Agency scientists have revealed that 2 ewes fed 5 milligrams of BSE-infected material had lambs that died of BSE after showing signs of infection. Their mothers had shown no outward signs of the disease at lambing, 1 showing them 73 days after lambing, and the other 198 days after. But it is still not certain that the lambs were infected while in the uterus, or shortly before or after lambing. The disease may have spread through the birthing fluids or in some other way. The evidence so far suggests this is far more likely than the lambs catching the disease from other apparently unaffected sheep. The sheep involved were of a genetic type that in lab tests previously appeared most susceptible to BSE. But it is unclear how many such sheep are in farms. Unfortunately at present there would be no way of identifying resistant sheep in time for them to go into food, while banning others. The fear about sheep has existed because, until the late 1980s, they were fed the same sort of feed as cattle. However if it was ever in sheep, there is no suggestion that it ever existed on a large scale. Officials have been worried that some BSE in sheep, if it existed, might have been masked by scrapie, not known to be dangerous to humans. The relatively small scale of the vCJD epidemic in humans so far might give some reassurance, given the size of an enormous BSE cattle epidemic. The Department of the Environment and Rural Affairs pointed out that nearly 2700 scrapie samples had been tested for BSE since 1998 with no sign of the disease, although 2 samples with anomalous results were still being tested, using mice. The UK Food Standards Agency has not placed any restrictions on the sale of sheep products (mutton, lamb and wool). For more information read the paper by J. Bellworthy et al., available at: http://veterinaryrecord.bvapublications.com/cgi/content/full/157/7/206 (Promed 8/19/05)
http://veterinaryrecord.bvapublications.com/cgi/content/full/157/7/206
WHAT about those atypical TSE sheep in VERMONT that were imported from Belgium?
WHAT about those atypical TSE cattle in Belgium?
THE USA imported atypical TSE to USA...TSS
Docket No, 04-047-l Regulatory Identification No. (RIN) 091O-AF46 NEW BSE SAFEGUARDS
snip...
NOT to forget the 'atypical' VERMONT USA' sheep scrapie/BSE/TSE?
back in 2000 with the testing conveniently ignored and put off once
again with animal
TSEs. Why I ask?
SCRAPIE ''ATYPICAL'' TSE IN SHEEP VERMONT UPDATE 2004
Greetings,
IN the year 2000, some sheep in Vermont were confiscated due to what
the USDA/APHIS said was an 'atypical TSE'.
WE were told there would be additional testing to confirm exactly what
TSE we were dealing with;
Release No. 0141.02
Ed Curlett (301) 734-3256
Jerry Redding (202) 720-6959
TESTING TO CONTINUE ON IMPORTED SHEEP CONFISCATED LAST YEAR
WASHINGTON, April 11, 2002 -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture today
announced that tests conducted on a flock of sheep confiscated last year
from a farm in Vermont confirm that two of the 125 sheep tested positive
for an atypical undifferentiated transmissible spongiform encephalopathy
(TSE) of foreign origin. The flock of 125 sheep was confiscated in March
2001 after four animals from an associated flock tested positive for TSE
in July 2000. USDA will continue to conduct additional tests to
determine the type of TSE in these sheep.
"These results confirm our previous conclusions were correct and that we
took the appropriate preventative actions in confiscating these
animals," said Bobby Acord, administrator of USDAs Animal and Plant
Health Inspection Service. "USDAs actions to confiscate, sample and
destroy these sheep were on target. As a result of our vigilance, none
of these confiscated animals entered the animal or human food supply."
The sheep, imported from Belgium and the Netherlands in 1996, were
placed under certain federal restrictions when they entered the country
as part of USDA's scrapie control efforts. In 1998, USDA learned that it
was likely that sheep from Europe were exposed to feed contaminated with
bovine spongiform encephalopathy. At that time, the state of Vermont, at
the request of USDA, imposed a quarantine on these flocks, which
prohibited slaughter or sale for breeding purposes.
On July 10, 2000, several sheep from the flock tested positive for a
TSE, a class of degenerative neurological diseases that is characterized
by a very long incubation period and a 100 percent mortality rate in
infected sheep. Two of the better known varieties of TSE are scrapie in
sheep and BSE in cattle. There is no evidence that scrapie poses a risk
to human health.
On July 14, 2000, USDA issued a declaration of extraordinary emergency
to acquire the sheep. This action was contested by the flock owners. A
federal district court judge ruled in favor of USDA based on the merits
of the case. The flock owners appealed to the Second Circuit Court
requesting a stay, which was denied. The sheep were confiscated by USDA
in March 2001 and transported to USDA's National Veterinary Services
Laboratories in Ames, Iowa, where they were humanely euthanized. Tissue
samples were collected from the sheep for diagnostic testing and USDA
will continue with additional tests which could take up to 2 - 3 years
to complete. In all, USDA has acquired 380 sheep from a total of three
flocks. All of the animals were humanely euthanized, sampled and
disposed and did not enter the animal or human food supply.
Our goal continues to be to prevent, detect and eradicate foreign animal
diseases to protect American agriculture, natural resources and
consumers," said Acord. "We will continue to utilize the scientific
results of these and other tests conducted during the last several years
to strengthen our extensive surveillance, monitoring and prevention
efforts."
For more information about USDAs ongoing surveillance, monitoring and
prevention efforts as it relates to this situation, please visit
www.aphis.usda.gov/oa/tse/index.html
#
SNIP...
-------- Original Message --------
Subject: Re: AW: [BSE-L] USDA did not test possible mad cows - Dr.
Detwiler, what about those sheep?
Date: Sun, 13 Jun 2004 11:27:24 -0500
From: "Terry S. Singeltary Sr."
Reply-To: Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy
To: [email protected]
References: <[email protected]> <[email protected]>
######## Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy #########
Greetings list members,
Thought I should let the list know that Dr. Detwiler kindly replied to my
question about the delayed 'atypical' TSE testing in the Vermont sheep and
tried to explain what caused the delay. If I interpreted it correctly,
seems it was the fault of the U.K. ;
-------- Original Message --------
Subject: Sheep
Date: Sat, 12 Jun 2004 14:26:04 EDT
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Mr. Singeltary.
I hope this finds you well. As you are aware I left the USDA last
year. I can only update you on the sheep before that time. Contact was
established with the UK on doing the bioassay studies. They agreed.
However, we were prioritized after their own needs, hence the delay. I
am aware that there are now additional labs in Europe running the mouse
bioassay strain typing. You will have to contact USDA for further word.
Linda Detwiler
=========
My reply to Dr. Detwiler;
-------- Original Message --------
Subject: Re: Sheep
Date: Sat, 12 Jun 2004 13:53:57 -0500
From: "Terry S. Singeltary Sr."
To: [email protected]
References: <[email protected]>
hello Dr. Detwiler,
thanks for your kind reply.
> However, we were prioritized after their own needs, hence the delay.
not sure i understand that?
> You will have to contact USDA for further word.
already done that, and there answer was;
>5/20/04
>
>Dear Mr. Singeltary,
>
>The Western blot tests on these animals were completed in April of this
>year. That means that we can begin the mouse inoculations. To get the
>results of the Western blot tests, you will need to submit a Freedom of
>Information Act request through our FOIA office. The FAX number there is
>301-734-5941.
>
>Have a nice day,
>
>Jim Rogers
>APHIS LPA
>
and with my previous attempts for information via the FOIA through
this administration (as you are probably very well aware of) they have
all been ignored/refused. so any further attempts would be fruitless i am
sure.
thanks anyway...
kindest regards,
Terry
[email protected] wrote:
> Mr. Singeltary.
snip...
TSS
Terry S. Singeltary Sr. wrote:
> ######## Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy
> #########
>
> Greetings Dr. Detwiler,
>
> glad to see you are still with us, you had become very silent lately.
> hope you are enjoying semi retirement.
>
> recently, i inquired through the BSE-L and via USDA official about
> those Vermont sheep via belgium which there was an Extraordinary
> Declaration of Emergency declared here in the USA due to
> atypical scrapie. The thread is;
>
> Confiscation of Sheep in Vermont and testing results ? Thu, 20 May 2004
> 12:10:03 -0500 "Terry S. Singeltary Sr." Bovine
> Spongiform Encephalopathy BSE-L
>
>
>
>> Imported
>> Belgium/Netherlands
>> Sheep Test Results
>> Background
>> Factsheet
>> Veterinary Services April 2002
>> APHIS
>
>
>
> snip...
>
>> Additional tests will be conducted to determine
>> exactly what TSE the animals haveBSE or scrapie.
>> These tests involve the use of bioassays that consist
>> of injecting mice with tissue from the infected animals
>> and waiting for them to develop disease. This testing
>> may take at least 2 to 3 years to complete.
>
>
>
> http://www.aphis.usda.gov/lpa/pubs/fsheet_faq_notice/fs_ahvtsheeptr.pdf
>
> DECLARATION OF EXTRAORDINARY EMERGENCY BECAUSE OF AN ATYPICAL T.S.E.
> (PRION DISEASE) OF FOREIGN ORIGIN IN THE UNITED STATES
>
> http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=2000_register&docid=fr20jy00-32
>
>
> DECLARATION OF EXTRAORDINARY EMERGENCY BECAUSE OF AN ATYPICAL T.S.E
> (PRION DISEASE) OF FOREIGN ORIGIN IN THE UNITED STATES [2]
>
> http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=2000_register&docid=fr20jy00-31
>
>
> or if those old urls dont work, go here;
>
> DECLARATION OF EXTRAORDINARY EMERGENCY BECAUSE OF AN ATYPICAL T.S.E
> (PRION DISEASE) OF FOREIGN ORIGIN IN THE UNITED STATES
> - Terry S.
> Singeltary Sr. 7/20/00 (0)
>
> [Federal Register: July 20, 2000 (Volume 65, Number 140)] [Notices]
> [Page 45018] >From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access
> [wais.access.gpo.gov] [DOCID:fr20jy00-32]
>
> -----------------------------------------------------------------------
>
> DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
>
> Office of the Secretary
>
> [Docket No. 00-072-1]
>
> Declaration of Extraordinary Emergency Because of an Atypical
> Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy (Prion Disease) of Foreign Origin
>
> A transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE) (prion disease) of
> foreign origin has been detected in the United States. It is different
> from TSE's previously diagnosed in the United States. The TSE was
> detected in the progeny of imported sheep. The imported sheep and
> their progeny are under quarantine in Vermont. Transmissible
> spongiform encephalopathies are degenerative fatal diseases that can
> affect livestock. TSE's are caused by similar, as yet uncharacterized,
> agents that usually produce spongiform changes in the brain.
> Post-mortem analysis has indicated positive results for an atypical
> TSE of foreign origin in four sheep in Vermont. Because of the
> potentially serious consequences of allowing the disease to spread to
> other livestock in the United States, it is necessary to seize and
> dispose of those flocks of sheep in Vermont that are affected with or
> exposed to the disease, and their germ plasm. The existence of the
> atypical TSE of foreign origin represents a threat to U.S. livestock.
> It constitutes a real danger to the national economy and a potential
> serious burden on interstate and foreign commerce. The Department has
> reviewed the measures being taken by Vermont to quarantine and
> regulate the flocks in question and has consulted with appropriate
> officials in the State of Vermont. Based on such review and
> consultation, the Department has determined that Vermont does not have
> the funds to compensate flock owners for the seizure and disposal of
> flocks affected with or exposed to the disease, and their germ plasm.
> Without such funds, it will be unlikely to achieve expeditious
> disposal of the flocks and germ plasm. Therefore, the Department has
> determined that an extraordinary emergency exists because of the
> existence of the atypical TSE in Vermont. This declaration of
> extraordinary emergency authorizes the Secretary to seize, quarantine,
> and dispose of, in such manner as he deems necessary, any animals that
> he finds are affected with or exposed to the disease in question, and
> their germ plasm, and otherwise to carry out the provisions and
> purposes of the Act of July 2, 1962 (21 U.S.C. 134-134h). The State of
> Vermont has been informed of these facts.
>
> Dated: This declaration of extraordinary emergency shall become
> effective July 14, 2000. Dan Glickman, Secretary of Agriculture. [FR
> Doc. 00-18367 Filed 7-19-00; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410-34-P
>
> http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=
> 2000_register&docid=fr20jy00-32 ================================
> [Federal Register: July 20, 2000 (Volume 65, Number 140)] [Notices]
> [Page 45018] >From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access
> [wais.access.gpo.gov] [DOCID:fr20jy00-31]
>
> ========================================================================
> Notices Federal Register
> ________________________________________________________________________
>
> This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains documents other than
> rules or proposed rules that are applicable to the public. Notices of
> hearings and investigations, committee meetings, agency decisions and
> rulings, delegations of authority, filing of petitions and
> applications and agency statements of organization and functions are
> examples of documents appearing in this section.
>
> ========================================================================
>
> [[Page 45018]]
>
> -----------------------------------------------------------------------
>
> DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
>
> Office of the Secretary
>
> [Docket No. 00-072-2]
>
> Declaration of Emergency Because of an Atypical Transmissible
> Spongiform Encephalopathy (Prion Disease) of Foreign Origin
>
> A transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE) (prion disease) of
> foreign origin has been detected in the United States. It is different
> from TSE's previously diagnosed in the United States. The TSE was
> detected in the progeny of imported sheep. The imported sheep and
> their progeny are under quarantine in Vermont. Transmissible
> spongiform encephalopathies are degenerative fatal diseases that can
> affect livestock. TSE's are caused by similar, as yet uncharacterized,
> agents that usually produce spongiform changes in the brain.
> Post-mortem analysis has indicated positive results for an atypical
> TSE of foreign origin in four sheep in Vermont. Because of the
> potentially serious consequences of allowing the disease to spread to
> other livestock in the United States, it is necessary to seize and
> dispose of those flocks of sheep in Vermont that are affected with or
> exposed to the disease, and their germ plasm. The existence of the
> atypical TSE of foreign origin represents a threat to U.S. livestock.
> It constitutes a real danger to the national economy and a potential
> serious burden on interstate and foreign commerce. APHIS has
> insufficient funds to carry out the seizure and disposal of animals
> and germ plasm necessary to eliminate this disease risk. These funds
> would be used to compensate the owners of the animals and germ plasm
> for their seizure and disposal in accordance with 21 U.S.C. 134a.
> Therefore, in accordance with the provisions of the Act of September
> 25, 1981, as amended (7 U.S.C. 147b), I declare that there is an
> emergency that threatens the livestock industry of this country and
> hereby authorize the transfer and use of such funds as may be
> necessary from appropriations or other funds available to agencies or
> corporations of the United States Department of Agriculture to seize
> and dispose of animals that are affected with or exposed to this TSE,
> and their germplasm, in accordance with 21 U.S.C. 134a.
>
> Dated: This declaration of emergency shall become effective July 14,
> 2000. Dan Glickman, Secretary of Agriculture. [FR Doc. 00-18368 Filed
> 7-19-00; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410-34-P
>
> I was told that ;
>
>
> -------- Original Message --------
> Subject: Re: hello Dr. Sutton...question please...scrapie...TSS
> Date: Thu, 20 May 2004 14:36:09 -0400
> From: [email protected].
> To: [email protected]
>
>
>
> Dear Mr. Singeltary,
>
> The Western blot tests on these animals were completed in April of this
> year. That means that we can begin the mouse inoculations. To get the
> results of the Western blot tests, you will need to submit a Freedom of
> Information Act request through our FOIA office. The FAX number there is
> 301-734-5941.
>
> Have a nice day,
>
> Jim Rogers
> APHIS LPA
> =========
>
>
> Dr. Detwiler, my question is, why have these very important test been
> delayed for so long when we were told they were to have been started
> some 2+ years ago?
>
> who made this call to delay these very important test and why ?
>
> thank you,
> with kindest regards,
>
> Terry
>
>
> Linda Detwiler wrote:
>
>> ######## Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy
>> #########
>>
snip...
######### http://mailhost-alt.rz.uni-karlsruhe.de/warc/bse-l.html ##########
WHAT ABOUT THE POTENTIAL FOR BSE IN SHEEP AND GOATS OR ANY OF THE
OTHER NEW ''ATYPICAL'' TSEs SHOWING UP?
02-Jun-04, 10:45
BSE IN SHEEP CONTINGENCY PLAN - CONSULTATION LAUNCH
Defra and the other UK Agriculture and Rural Affairs Departments today launched a consultation on the UK contingency plan on possible actions if BSE were confirmed in sheep.
http://www.wired-gov.net/WGLaunch.aspx?ARTCL=24789
The total prevalence of scrapie in the USA is really unknown.
SNIP...
https://web01.aphis.usda.gov/regpublic.nsf/0/eff9eff1f7c5cf2b87256ecf000df08d?OpenDocument
>> TODAY, i finally recieve this from SEAC about these so called
>> mouse bioassays that never took place on the Vermont sheep,
>> and it still looks like the ball was dropped by the USDA to me.
>> I guess like everything else they do, we will never know the truth...
>>
>>
>> -------- Original Message --------
>> Subject: re-85th Meeting of SEAC - 30.11.04
>> Date: Tue, 21 Dec 2004 16:56:55 -0000
>> From: "Barlow, Tom (SEAC)"
>> To: "'[email protected]'"
>>
>>
>>
>> Dear Mr Singeltary
>>
>> Thank you for you enquiry to the SEAC secretariat about mouse bioassays
>> commissioned by the USDA to investigate TSE cases in imported sheep.
>
>> After making a number of enquiries, it appears that Defra were not
>> involved
>> with this work. However, it is possible that a UK research
>> laboratory was
>> contacted by the USDA about such tests but I have been unable to find
>> out
>> any further information. You may wish to make further enquiries with
>> the
>> USDA.
>>
>> Yours sincerely
>>
>> Tom Barlow
>>
>> Dr Tom Barlow
>> Spongiform Encephalopathy Advisory Committee (SEAC) Secretariat
>> Area 108, 1A Page Street, London SW1P 4PQ
>>
>> Tel: 0207 904 6267
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: Terry S. Singeltary Sr. [mailto:[email protected]]
>> Sent: 02 December 2004 20:19
>> To: Dale, Tabitha J (SEAC)
>> Subject: re-85th Meeting of SEAC - 30.11.04
>>
Atypical Case of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy in an East-Flemish Cow in Belgium
http://veterinaryrecord.bvapublications.com/cgi/content/full/157/7/206
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON SCRAPIE
Chair: Dr. Jim Logan, Cheyenne, WY
Vice Chair: Dr. Joe D. Ross, Sonora, TX
Dr. Deborah L. Brennan, MS; Dr. Beth Carlson, ND; Dr. John R. Clifford, DC; Dr. Thomas F. Conner, OH; Dr. Walter E. Cook, WY; Dr. Wayne E. Cunningham, CO; Dr. Jerry W. Diemer, TX; Dr. Anita J. Edmondson, CA; Dr. Dee Ellis, TX; Dr. Lisa A. Ferguson, MD; Dr. Keith R. Forbes, NY; Dr. R. David Glauer, OH; Dr. James R. Grady, CO; Dr. William L. Hartmann, MN; Dr. Carolyn Inch, CAN; Dr. Susan J. Keller, ND; Dr. Allen M. Knowles, TN; Dr. Thomas F. Linfield, MT; Dr. Michael R. Marshall, UT; Dr. Cheryl A. Miller, In; Dr. Brian V. Noland, CO; Dr. Charles Palmer, CA; Dr. Kristine R. Petrini, MN; Mr. Stan Potratz, IA; Mr. Paul E. Rodgers, CO; Dr. Joan D. Rowe, CA; Dr. Pamela L. Smith, IA; Dr. Diane L. Sutton, MD; Dr. Lynn Anne Tesar, SD; Dr. Delwin D. Wilmot, NE; Dr. Nora E. Wineland, CO; Dr. Cindy B. Wolf, MN.
The Committee met on November 9, 2005, from 8:00am until 11:55am, Hershey Lodge and Convention Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania. The meeting was called to order by Dr. Jim Logan, chair, with vice chairman Dr. Joe D. Ross attending. There were 74 people in attendance.
The Scrapie Program Update was provided by Dr. Diane Sutton, National Scrapie Program Coordinator, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services (APHIS), Veterinary Services (VS). The complete text of the Status Report is included in these Proceedings.
Dr. Patricia Meinhardt, USDA-APHIS-VS-National Veterinary Services Laboratory (NVSL) gave the Update on Genotyping Labs and Discrepancies in Results. NVSL conducts investigations into discrepancies on genotype testing results associated with the Scrapie Eradication Program. It is the policy of the Program to conduct a second genotype test at a second laboratory on certain individual animals. Occasionally, there are discrepancies in those results. The NVSL conducts follow-up on these situations through additional testing on additional samples from the field and archive samples from the testing laboratories.
For the period of time from January 1, 2005, until October 15, 2005, there were 23 instances of discrepancies in results from 35 flocks. Of those 23 instances, 14 were caused by laboratory error (paperwork or sample mix-up), 3 results from field error, 5 were not completely resolved, and 1 originated from the use of a non-approved laboratory for the first test. As a result of inconsistencies, one laboratory's certification was revoked by APHIS-VS.
To reduce/eliminate these problems, the Program has placed additional quality requirements on the testing laboratories: additional review of final reports, additional coding systems for testing operations, strict follow-up and reports to NVSL on corrective actions, dual data entry systems, and more frequent inspections.
The Agricultural Research Services (ARS) Scrapie Research Update was given by Janet Alverson, USDA- ARS. Dr. Alverson reported on the effect of multiple births and fetal position within the uterus on PrP-Sc accumulation in fetal cotyledons. Fetal cotyledons of fetuses with
resistant genotypes can accumulate PrP-Sc when positioned next to a fetus of susceptible genotype with cotyledons positive for PrP-Sc accumulation.
Scrapie Surveillance Evaluation Working Group Update was presented by Tracey Lynn, Epidemiologist with the National Surveillance Unit, Center for Epidemiology and Animal Health (CEAH). The presentation provided a background on evaluation, a quick review of analyses completed to date by the scrapie surveillance evaluation working group, and some of the preliminary findings. The process of surveillance system evaluation is undertaken to assist a disease control program with identifying possible improvements to their surveillance system, and includes an assessment of the overall utility of the system, identification of potential gaps in coverage, and an evaluation of the overall performance of the system. The scrapie surveillance evaluation working group reviewed the structure and processes of the scrapie surveillance program, as well as various quality and effectiveness measures.
Overall, 98-99% of surveillance samples come from the Regulatory Scrapie Surveillance System (RSSS), so the RSSS system has been the primary focus of the evaluation process. The working group developed a flow chart indicating the flow of sheep through RSSS, which identified potential gaps in surveillance coverage, including custom kill plants and sheep being exported to Mexico. Spatial analyses can assist in identifying areas with high density sheep populations with lower levels of RSSS sampling. Identification compliance is being evaluated by reviewing reports from slaughter plants on the proportion of animals with appropriate identification. Additional analyses remain, including defining the most appropriate economic analyses, and comparing the surveillance system with developing surveillance standards. The working group hopes to have a draft written report for review by the end of the year.
Giving the Update on Scrapie Diagnostics and Susceptibility was Katherine O'Roarke, Research Microbiologist, USDA-ARS. "What's New in Scrapie" -- Biopsy sampling of the third eyelid or tonsillar lymphoid tissue is a useful live animal test for scrapie. The biopsy sample is examined for accumulation of the abnormal prion protein using immunohistochemistry. A joint project conducted by the Veterinary Laboratory Agencies and the Moredun Institute in the United Kingdom has developed an alternative technique in which tissue is collected from the narrow band of lymphoid tissue near the rectal-anal junction. The morphology of the lymphoid follicles is similar in the tonsil, retropharyngeal lymph nodes, third eyelid, and rectal-anal mucosal tissue. A report on more than 300 sheep in the United Kingdom (UK), prepared by Drs. Lorenzo Gonzalez and Jeffrey Martin, will describe the sensitivity, specificity, and optimal collection interval for this technique in a variety of breeds of British sheep. ARS has done a preliminary evaluation of the technique in US sheep. Samples of third eyelid and rectal-mucosal tissue were collected from 56 sheep. Forty-two (42) sheep had negative biopsies at both sites; most of these sheep have been necropsied and no PrP-d was found in retropharyngeal lymph node or tonsil, showing good agreement with the antemortem biopsies. Fourteen (14) sheep had positive rectal biopsy samples; of those, only 12 had positive eyelid biopsies. These sheep will be monitored for disease development. However, the protocol is identical for all samples and it is probable that these sheep represent false negative third eyelid results. Abstracts of reports on the UK studies indicate that sensitivity of the test was 70% in the UK; similar large scale testing on US sheep is necessary. The biopsy tissue is somewhat difficult to handle in the tissue processing laboratory and adaptation to an ELISA format may improve test performance.
Alexia McKnight, Assistant Professor of Radiology, University of Pennsylvania, reviewed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) diagnostics before the committee. A synopsis containing references is attached at the end of this report. Dr. McKnight asked the question, "could MRI be a cost-effective screening test, estimated at $25-30 each with results immediately available." The committee feels that it is not practical as compared to other alternatives currently available. However, the committee expressed interest in future reference to this technology.
Dr. Diane Sutton lead the Uniform Methods and Rules (UM&R) and Regulatory Issues Discussion. Several modifications to the UM&R were discussed. Eight issues were identified and communicated to the APHIS scrapie program coordinator. The committee acknowledged that APHIS and the industry is adequately addressing the year-to-year industry concerns.
Dr. Kris Petrini representing the North Central United States Animal Health Association District presented five recommendations to the Committee. During the discussions regarding these recommendations it was evident that all five issues had been addressed during the year at this Committee meeting.
The Committee approved a recommendation that USDA-APHIS-VS continue to provide indemnity funds for animals that have been designated for testing in Flocks Under Investigation as an alternative to third eyelid testing after consultation with the designated Scrapie Epidemiologist (DSE) and the Regional Area Epidemiologist (RAE).
The 2004 Resolutions along with their responses were reviewed by the Committee.
A Resolution concerning premises registration and identification was approved by the Committee and forwarded to the Committee on Nominations and Resolutions.
Committee on Scrapie
Status Report-Fiscal Year 2005: Cooperative State-Federal Scrapie Eradication Program
Submitted by Diane Sutton, DVM and Gary Ross, DVM
National Center for Animal Health Programs, APHIS, USDA
In Fiscal Year 2005 the Scrapie Eradication Program focused on: (1) utilization of a genetic based approach to flock clean-up plans; (2) cleaning up infected and source flocks; (3) tracing and testing exposed animals and flocks; (4) expansion of regulatory slaughter surveillance (RSSS); (5) conducting considtent state reviews, (6) producer education; (7) upgrading of the Scrapie National Generic Database and (8) publishing the updated Scrapie Eradication Uniform Methods and Rules (UM&R). The current Scrapie Eradication UM&R is posted at http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/nahps/scrapie/umr-scrapie-erad.pdf.
Consistent State Reviews
States must meet the requirements in 9 CFR 79.6 in order to move sheep and goats in interstate commerce with minimal restrictions. Twenty seven states have enacted the required identification rules, the remaining states have submitted a work plan that describes the steps that will be taken to comply and provided a timeline for completing significant milestones. USDA is conducting onsite scrapie program consistent state reviews and has completed reviews in 12 states. States must be in full compliance by the end of their current rule making cycle. States not in full compliance at that time will be removed from the consistent state list. Removal from the list would create a significant impact on the interstate movement of sheep and goats from those States.
Scrapie Flock Certification Program
As of September 30, 2005, there were 1,961 flocks participating in the Scrapie Flock Certification Program (SFCP). Of these flocks 188 were certified flocks, 1,770 were complete monitored flocks, and 3 were selective monitored flocks (figure 2). There were 209 flocks newly enrolled and 53 newly certified (13 with status dates in FY 2005 and 40 with status dates in previous years) in FY 2005 (figure 3).
Infected and Source Flocks
As of September 30, 2005, there were 105 scrapie infected and source flocks. There were a total of 165** new infected and source flocks reported for FY 2005. The total infected and source flocks that have been released in FY 2005 was 128. The ratio of infected and source flocks cleaned up or placed on clean up plans vs. new infected and source flocks discovered in FY 2005 was 1.03 : 1*. In addition 622 scrapie cases were confirmed and reported by the National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) in FY 2005, of which 130 were RSSS cases. Fifteen cases of scrapie in goats have been reported since 1990. The last goat case was reported in May 2005. Approximately 5,626 animals were indemnified comprised of 49% non-registered sheep, 45% registered sheep, 1.4% non-registered goats and 4.6% registered goats.
Regulatory Scrapie Slaughter Surveillance (RSSS)
RSSS was designed to utilize the findings of the Center for Epidemiology and Animal Health (CEAH) Scrapie: Ovine Slaughter Surveillance (SOSS) study. The results of SOSS can be found at http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/ceah/cahm/Sheep/sheep.htm . RSSS started April 1,
2003. It is a targeted slaughter surveillance program which is designed to identify infected flocks for clean-up. During FY 2005 collections increased by 32% overall and by 90% for black and mottled faced sheep improving overall program effectiveness and efficiency as demonstrated by the 26% decrease in percent positive black faced sheep compared to FY 2004. Samples have been collected from 62,864 sheep since April 1, 2003, of which results have been reported for 59,105 of which 209 were confirmed positive. During FY 2005, 33,137 samples were collected from 81 plants. There have been 130 NVSL confirmed positive cases (30 collected in FY 2004 and confirmed in FY 2005 and 100 collected and confirmed in FY 2005) in FY 2005. Face colors of these positives were 114 black, 14 mottled, 1 white and 1 unknown. The percent positive by face color is shown in the chart below.
Scrapie Testing
In FY 2005, 35,845 animals have been tested for scrapie: 30,192 RSSS; 4,742 regulatory field cases; 772 regulatory third eyelid biopsies; 10 third eyelid validations; and 129 necropsy validations (chart 9).
Animal ID
As of October 04, 2005, 103,580 sheep and goat premises have been assigned identification numbers in the Scrapie National Generic Database. Official eartags have been issued to 73,807 of these premises.
*This number based on an adjusted 12 month interval to accommodate the 60 day period for setting up flock plans.
http://www.usaha.org/committees/reports/2005/report-scr-2005.pdf
0208h023: UK exports of sheep, goats and sheep/goat meats and meat products (1988 - 2001)
http://www.vegsource.com/articles/sheep_exports.htm
just something else to ponder 20 or 30 years further down the road $$$
TSS