The Welsh Government is currently offering free skin scrapes for sheep scab all year round.
The free diagnostic test is for sheep displaying clinical signs only.
Skin scrape samples will be received in the normal way, via a vet and should be posted directly to APHA Carmarthen Veterinary Investigation Centre, where testing will be undertaken. An epidemiological questionnaire is no longer required to be completed to qualify for free testing.
Samples can be submitted either - with a Small Ruminant submission form - or through the online portal ADTS https://www.gov.uk/animal-disease-testing (free postage is available with ADTS). Samples must be accompanied by a fully completed submission form / ADTS submission to qualify for free testing.
You need to include a full clinical history and any relevant treatment history, and note on the form ‘Wales sheep scab testing’. Samples should be sent to:
APHA Carmarthen Veterinary Investigation Centre
Job’s Well Road
Johnstown
Carmarthen
Carmarthenshire
SA31 3EZ
For any queries or more information contact the APHA Carmarthen VIC on 0300 060 0016 or email