Sheep scab represents a significant burden for the national sheep industry and a serious welfare issue for diseased animals. Although different treatment options are available and despite tackling of this disease being a top priority for the industry, sheep scab is currently widely spread within the UK, and its control still represents a significant challenge for all the parties involved. This article provides an overview of sheep scab, focusing on the established knowledge available for both clinical and subclinical disease. Recent advancements in the diagnosis of the disease are also presented, with an emphasis on the added value and practical use of a blood test for diagnosis of the subclinical disease, and for its use in monitoring flock exposure to the parasite. Currently available and future options for treatment and disease control are discussed, especially in the light of the challenge posed by the development of drug resistance.

Valentina Busin - Veterinary Clinician in Disease Investigation, University of Glasgow, Veterinary Pathology, Public Health & Disease Investigation, 464 Bearsden Road, Glasgow G611QH