Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Sheep host numerous pathogens—some zoonotic (transmissible to humans), others economically devastating to flocks. Key diseases:
| Disease | Agent | Key Features | Zoonotic? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scrapie | Prion (PrPSc) | Neurodegenerative, fatal, TSE. Genetic susceptibility. OIE-listed. | No (but related to BSE/CJD concerns) |
| Foot-and-Mouth Disease | Aphthovirus (Picornaviridae) | Highly contagious, vesicular lesions, trade-stopping. Not in US since 1929. | Rare, mild |
| Brucellosis | Brucella melitensis (mainly) | Abortion, infertility. Zoonotic (Malta fever). Eradicated in US flocks. | Yes |
| Caseous Lymphadenitis (CLA) | Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis | Abscesses in lymph nodes/lungs. Chronic, reduces carcass value. Vaccine available. | Rare |
| Contagious Ecthyma (Orf) | Parapoxvirus | Scabby lesions on lips/udders. Self-limiting. Zoonotic (hand lesions). | Yes |
| Johne's Disease | Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis | Chronic wasting diarrhea. Hard to eradicate. Possible Crohn's link debated. | Controversial |
| Maedi-Visna / OPP | Lentivirus (Retroviridae) | Progressive pneumonia/encephalitis/arthritis. Lifelong infection. No vaccine. | No |
| Psoroptic Mange | Psoroptes ovis (mite) | Intense itching, wool loss, weight loss. Treatable with macrocyclic lactones. | No (species-specific) |
Consult a veterinarian for flock health plans. This list is not exhaustive.