Approaches to vaccines for Psoroptes ovis (sheep scab)

A brief outline of the history of sheep scab in the UK. is presented togeth er with the current chemical methods used for its control and problems asso ciated with these. Possible alternative approaches to control are discussed , as are selected aspects of the physiology of Psorptes ovis and the pathog enesis of the scab lesion from the perspective of control through immunisat ion. Evidence is provided that immunity to the disease can indeed be acquir ed, both naturally after a previous infection and following inoculation of mite proteins in adjuvant. These results support the view that control by v accination may be possible, although little is known to date about the anti gens involved or the mechanism of protection. (C) 2001 Harcourt Publishers Ltd.