Skip to content

Maedi Visna

Maedi Visna (MV) was first detected in Icelandic sheep flocks during 1954, before being introduced to the UK following the importation of infected sheep.  MV is caused by a retrovirus and is capable of having devastating effects on a flock, significantly reducing fertility and productivity. MV is a chronic wasting disorder, which is increasing in prevalence across UK flocks (recently doubling from 1.4-2.8%).  MV is ultimately a fatal condition, for which there is no vaccine available.  Flocks can be blood sampled to test for infection – with SRUC’s Premium Sheep and Goat Health Scheme also running an MV accreditation scheme.

Maedi Visna Factsheet

 

3 lambs grazing

Sign up to the FAS newsletter

Receive updates on news, events and publications from Scotland’s Farm Advisory Service