Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies (TSE) are a group of diseases occurring in human and animals.
These diseases cause degeneration of brain tissue giving it a sponge-like appearance.
They are fatal diseases that can affect various species including:
- humans
- cattle
- sheep
- goats
- deer
- camelids
The diseases include:
- Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) in cattle
- Scrapie in sheep and goats
- Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in deer
- Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) in humans
All TSEs are notifiable diseases.
Clinical signs
Clinical signs depend on the type of disease and species affected but generally include:
- behavioural change
- hypersensitivity to touch, sound and light
- loss of coordination, falling, tremor
- weight loss
Transmission, prevention and treatment
Transmission and prevention will depend on the type of disease and species affected. Currently, there is no treatment for TSEs.
If you suspect that an animal is infected:
- they should be quarantined, culled and tested
- you should notify your local Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) office immediately on 0300 303 8268