Oregon Scrapie Case Prompts USDA Investigation

The affected sheep was not carrying an official ear tag, which may limit traceability.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD-TV) — USDA has confirmed a case of classical scrapie in a sheep slaughtered in Oregon.

As Russell Nemetz reports, the National Veterinary Services Laboratories is leading the investigation. American Sheep Industry Association President Ben Lehfeldt said the case highlights the progress the industry has made in detecting the disease after several years without a confirmed case.

USDA and state animal health officials are working to identify the flock of origin, although the affected sheep was not carrying an official ear tag, which may limit traceability.

USDA said it expects minimal impacts on sheep markets and international trade.

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Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD-TV and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


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