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Caprine Arthritis Encephalitis (CAE) is a disease of goats caused by a virus.  The CAE lentivirus is closely related to the Maedi Visna virus of sheep.  The disease primarily affects the joints and the brain, although the udder and lungs can also become infected.  In a survey in Britain, nearly 5 goats in every 1000 sampled tested positive for CAE.  The condition is highly infectious, difficult to diagnose on clinical signs alone, and there is no cure.

Economic Impact

• Early culling and death in kids
• Gradual drop in milk yield due to mastitis
• Potential damage to export sales

Benefits of Joining the Scheme

• Gives membership of a nationally recognised health scheme
• Allows export to certain countries free from CAE
• Gives added value to the herd
• Helps minimise the risks of introducing CAE into the herd

For more information about CAE, please see the Quick Reference Guide on the right or contact the PSGHS office.