Protecting Flocks and Profits: The Vital Role of HISHA in EAE Prevention
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When it comes to sheep farming in the Highlands and Islands, flock health is important. That鈥檚 why the听Highlands and Islands Sheep Health Association (HISHA)听plays such a vital role鈥攑roviding farmers with听EAE-accredited sheep听to ensure they can buy听top-quality, disease-free replacements听with confidence.
What is EAE and Why Does it Matter?
Enzootic Abortion of Ewes (EAE)听is the听leading cause of abortion in sheep, and its impact on farm profitability is severe. EAE can trigger devastating听鈥渁bortion storms鈥澨齛nd widespread听lamb loss, often without any warning signs.
The disease is听extremely difficult to control. A flock can become infected through apparently healthy replacement ewes. Once infected, these animals may abort the following spring鈥攅ither a few weeks before lambing begins or by delivering weak, non-viable lambs. While these ewes may go on to lamb normally in future years, they remain听carriers of the disease, posing a risk to their own lambs and the wider flock.
The cost? At least 拢95 per ewe.听EAE costs the UK sheep industry up to 拢20 million a year
The risk? Long-term infection and transmission.
The danger? EAE is also a human health hazard, especially for pregnant women.
听Why Choose HISHA EAE-Accredited Replacements?
HISHA gives farmers peace of mind by offering听rigorously tested and accredited stock. Here鈥檚 what sets HISHA apart:
- Annual Screening: All HISHA flocks are tested for EAE every year.
- Post-Lambing Testing: Sheep are tested within three months after lambing.
- Strict Biosecurity: Members follow robust protocols to prevent disease spread.
- Vaccination-Ready: HISHA sheep are clean breeding replacements that can be vaccinated for added protection.
By sourcing HISHA-accredited replacements, farmers can听protect their flocks, safeguard their profits, and reduce the risk of EAE outbreaks.
听Where to Buy HISHA Stock
You can find HISHA EAE-accredited sheep at:
- Orkney
- Dingwall
- United Auctions
- Aberdeen and Northern Marts
Or search for accredited flocks online at:听
Don鈥檛 let EAE threaten your flock.
Choose HISHA-accredited replacements and invest in a healthier, more profitable future.
Posted by 抖阴直播 Veterinary Services on 05/08/2025
