Risk Management Proposal  
Semen and Embryos from Sheep ( Ovis aries)  and 
(Capra hircus ) Goats  
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
March  2014   
 
 
Disclaimer  
 
This risk management proposal does not constitute, and should not be regarded as, legal advice. While every 
effort has been made to ensure the information in this document is accurate, the Ministry for Primary Industries 
does not accept any responsibility or liability whatsoever for any err or of fact, omission, interpretation or opinion 
that may be present, however it may have occurred.  
 
Requests for further copies should be directed to:  
 
Ministry for Primary Industries  
Standards Branch  
Animal Imports  
PO Box 2526  
WELLINGTON 6140  
 
Email:   animalimports@mpi.govt.nz  
Telephone:          04 890 0134  
Facsimile:            04 894 0733  
 
 
 
© Crown Copyright -  Ministry for Primary Industries   
i Contents  Page 
 
1 Purpose  1 
2 Background  1 
3 Objective  1 
4 Options Assessment  1 
5 General Requirements  2 
6 Recommendations for Identified Risk Organisms  2 
6.1 Akabane and Schmallenberg virus  3 
6.2 Bluetongue virus (BTV)  3 
6.3 Borna disease virus  4 
6.4 Capripox virus (sheep and goat pox)  4 
6.5 Crimean Congo haemorrhagic fever vi rus (CCHF)  5 
6.6 Foot and mouth disease virus (FMD)  6 
6.7 Jaagsiekte sheep retrovirus (ovine pulmonary adenomatosis)  6 
6.8 Louping ill and related virus es 7 
6.9 Maedi -visna virus  7 
6.10 Nairobi sheep disease virus  8 
6.11 Peste des petits ruminants virus (PPR) and rinderpest virus  8 
6.12 Rift Valley fever virus (RVF)  9 
6.13 Vesicular stomatitis virus  10 
6.14 Wesselsbron disease virus  10 
6.15 Brucella melitensis  (caprine and ovine brucellosis)  11 
6.16 Mycoplasma and related mollicutes  11 
6.17 Salmonella spp  13 
6.18 Mycobacterium caprae and bovis  13 
6.19 Leptospira serovars  14 
6.20 Chlamydia abortus (enzootic abortion of ewes, EAE)  14 
6.21 Coxiella burnetii (Q Fever)  15 
6.22 Scrapie  15 
  
Ministry for Primary Industries   Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats • 1 1 Purpose  
The purpose of this document is to:  
• Show how options for the management of risk organisms have been assessed  
• Provide recommendations for import requirements.  
 
2 Background  
Sheep and goat germplasm is considered a risk commodity, with the potential to harbour exotic vir uses , bacteria, 
and prion s.  In October 2005, MPI completed an  Import Risk Analysis (IRA) for sheep ( Ovis aries ) and goat 
(Capra hircus ) genetic material ( http://www.biosecurity.govt.nz/files/regs/imports/risk/risk -analysis -sheep- goat-
genetic -material.pdf ). This IRA, while relevant at the time, is now outdated since there have been technical 
advances as well as changes to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) Terrestrial Animal Health Code  
(the Code ) in the interim.  Also, the IRA does not reflect the cur rent New Zealand position relative to the 
appropriate level of protection (ALOP).  Furthermore, it does not reflect MPI’s interest in aligning with the Code  
where there are appropriate risk management measures.  Measures that have been recommended within this risk 
management proposal (RMP) may therefore diverge from the 2005 IRA.   
 In January 2011 MPI issued t he Import Risk Analysis: Scrapie in sheep and goa t germplasm  
(
http://www.biosecurity.govt.nz/files/biosec/consult/import -risk-analysis -scrapie -sheep -goat.pdf  ). This document 
is more directly reflected in the RMP recommendations.  
 
For OIE listed diseases, the RMP  will strive to align with the Code , provided this meets New Zealand’s ALOP. 
Where there are variances , these will be justified within the RMP.  In the case of non- OIE listed diseases the 
measures are those thought to best meet the ALOP.  
 
In accordance with MPI processes, the IRAs are  used to develop an IHS with generic import requirements.  The 
generic IHS serves as the basis for country to country  (bilateral) negotiations of country specific veterinary 
certificates.  Additionally, the n egotiations will take into account the verifiable health status of the exporting 
country, the national systems, legislation and import requirements  of the exporting country for regulatory 
oversight of germplasm collection and processing, and the capabilities and preferences of the exporting country’s Competent Authority. The assessments will be based on World Trade Organisation Terrestrial Animal Health 
Code (the Code)  3, Quality of Veterinary Services.  
 
A guidance document will be issued by MPI and this will provide specific guidance information, a model veterinary 
certificate, and samples of bilaterally -agreed veterinary certification for trade in sheep and goat ger mplasm.  
 
3 Objective  
The objective is to effectively manage all biosecurity risks posed by the import of sheep and goat germplasm ,  
consistent with New Zealand’s domestic legislation and international obligations.  
 
4 Options A ssessment  
Under Article 3.3 of the World Trade Organisation Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary 
Measures (the SPS Agreement), risk management measures which provide a level of protection greater than 
provided by international standards may be imposed only when they can be scientifically justified on the basis of a risk assessment.   
 The risks associated with semen and embryo collection, processing, storage, and transport were described in the 
IRA and methods to manage those risks are presented as general requiremen ts in this document. The specific 
requirements for risk organisms, as described in the IRA, are described here and recommendations for 
requirements are provided.  2 • Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats  Ministry for Primary Industries  5 General Requirements 
The general requirements section of the IHS  includes risk management mea sures for any semen or embryo 
donor, regardless of the country’s disease freedom  claims. These requirements align with the recommendations 
of the Code  and the International Embryo Transfer Society ( IETS) .   
 
The Code  provides methods to prevent germplasm from being contaminated with risk organisms during 
collection, processing, and transport.  Although the Code's  methods for embryos are not specific to sheep and 
goats, they have been adapted for these species in this document .  The measures  describe procedures for  entry 
of a semen donor into a semen collection centre , which involves testing the donor prior to pre -entry isolation, 
testing during a 28 day isolation period,  and annual testing on the centre.  In the case of embryo c ollection, the 
Code  describes three phases of risk: the health status of the flock/herd or country of origin, the processes 
followed during collection of embryos, and the testing of germplasm collected or surveillance of the donors.  
 
It is recommended tha t the germplasm collection team should be approved by the Competent Authority. The 
team’s practices, as well as the processing and storage of germplasm and any test samples, should be in 
accordance with the Code where applicable.  
  
All germplasm donors should be resident in a  collection flock/herd or held at an approved collection centre for at 
least the 28 days before collection. If testing before collection is permitted, the donor should be required to be 
isolated from other animal s not of equivalent tested health status until the end of germplasm collection. On the 
day of collection, the health status of each donor should be confirmed to be free of clinical evidence of infectious 
diseases transmissible in germplasm by the approved veterinarian. Additionally, if risk is managed by ensuring 
absence of disease from the donor and establishment for a specific amount of time after collection, the 
germplasm should be stored for the amount of time specified under each disease before export.   All germplasm 
should be stored in sealed,  tamper -proof,  labelled straws or containers.   
 
For the production of embryos, consideration should be given to the health status of the semen donor, requiring 
that it be eligible for importation into New Zealand.  Due to some measures existing for semen, but not for 
embryos (such as scrapie in sheep), semen donors should be required to satisfy the measures in the IHS applicable to  semen donors.  
 
The IETS  manual provides guidance regarding trypsin washing and verifi cation of the intact zona pellucida (intact 
and free of adherent material) after washing. These are important steps in processing to ensure that viruses will 
not be transmitted with the embryo. Trypsin is critical in removing infectious bovine rhinotrachei tis virus and 
vesicular stomatitis virus. Micro -manipulation should only be permitted after washing and verification of the zona 
pellucida for maximum assurance that the embryo is free of virus.  
 
6 Recommendations for Identified Risk Organisms 
The biosecuri ty risks associated with the importation of semen and embryos from sheep and goat h ave been 
examined in the document Import Risk Analysis: Sheep and Goat Genetic Material (dated October 2005), the 
Import Risk Analysis: Scrapie in sheep and goat germplasm (dated January 2011), the Rapid Risk Assessment: 
Schmallenberg virus in imported live animals and germplasm (dated February 2013) .  Of the potential hazards, 
the IRAs  concluded that risk management measures were justified for the hazards described  in this RMP . 
 
Diagnostic t ests recommended by the Code  and described in the OIE  Manual  (specifically those prescribed for 
international trade) should  be used as the test of choice for all specified risk organisms in the IHS.  Where there is 
no OIE prescribed test for a particular risk organism, or the exporting country proposes to use an alternative test, 
MPI Investigation and Diagnostic Centre ( IDC) laboratory experts should assess the test as valid for diagnostic 
purposes in the importation of sheep and goat germ plasm, and appropriate for screening for the risk organism 
and equ ivalent to the IHS requirement.  MPI approved diagnostic tests will be listed in the MPI Document, 
Approved diagnostic tests, vaccines, treatments and post -arrival testing laboratories testi ng for animal import 
health standards (MPI -STD-TVTL).  
  
Ministry for Primary Industries   Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats • 3 The options which specify vaccination may require MPI approval of the vaccine .  For a vaccine to gain approval, 
the Competent Authority should submit details of the vaccination protocol, including vaccine type, discussion of 
potential risks with the vaccine and how they can be managed (for example, reversion to virulence), and 
surve illance details, including how vaccinated animals are distinguished from infected animals.  If satisfied with 
the information, MPI will list the approved vaccines in the MPI document, Approved diagnostic tests, vaccines, 
treatments and post -arrival testing  laboratories testing for animal import health standards (MPI -STD-TVTL).  
 
 
6.1 Akabane and Schmallenberg virus 
6.1.1 Risk management measures presented in the 2005 risk analysis included:  
Donors should : 
i. be resident for at least 21 days immediately before germplasm collection in a country or zone that is free from Simbu viruses; or  
ii. be held in a disease free area or in insect free premises for at least the 21 days before 
collection of germplasm; or  
iii. be tested, within the seven days prior to germplasm collection and aga in 3-6 weeks after the 
final germplasm collection using a Simbu -group reactive cELISA. Semen and embryos from 
animals that sero- convert or have rising titres between the two tests should be disqualified from 
entry into New Zealand. Animals that are serolog ically positive at the first test or negative at 
both tests are suitable for use as germplasm donors.  
6.1.2 Risk estimation presented in the 2013 Schmallenberg rapid risk assessment:  
For live animals, the likelihood of exposure is assessed to be negligible. For  germplasm imports, the 
consequences are assessed to be negligible. Therefore, SBV is not assessed to be a risk in imported 
live animals or their germplasm and risk management measures are not justified.  
6.1.3 Discussion  
Akabane and Schmallenberg (Simbu -group) vi ruses are arthropod -borne. No known competent vectors 
are present in New Zealand.  Establishment or horizontal transmission between animals is not possible 
without the presence of Culicoides  spp., which have been demonstrated by active surveillance to be 
absent from New Zealand .  
 Akabane and Schmallenberg viruses are not OIE listed and the diseases they cause are not considered 
public health threats . 
6.1.4 Recommendation 
No measures are recommended because of the absence of a vector in New Zealand.  
 
6.2 Bluetongue virus (BTV)  
6.2.1 Risk management measures presented in the 2005 risk analysis included:  
Donor animals should:  
i. be resident for the 100 days preceding germplasm collection in a country or zone that is free from bluetongue; or  
ii. maintained free from contact with Cul icoides spp. for the 100 days immediately before semen 
collection. This should be achieved by keeping them in a Culicoides free area, or in a 
seasonally free area in which Culicoides are inactive, or in an insect free isolation facility; or  
iii. be tested serol ogically with negative results for bluetongue antibodies at least every 60 days 
during germplasm collection and between 28 and 60 days after collection with negative results. 
An OIE recommended test for the detection of sero -group antibodies should be used  (Eaton, 
2004); or  4 • Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats  Ministry for Primary Industries  iv. be tested by a virus isolation procedure or PCR on the day of commencement and conclusion 
of collection and at least every 7 days during collection of semen and on the day of collection of 
embryos.  
 
6.2.2 Discussion  
Bluetongue is an OIE listed  disease and the IETS classifies bluetongue in sheep embryos as category 
21
Whilst the 2005 sheep and goat germplasm IRA stated that risk management measures are justified, the 
more recent IRA for bovine germplasm (completed in February 2009) concluded that risk management 
measures are not justified.  The reason for this is becaus e New Zealand is free from Culicoides  spp., the 
insect vector of bluetongue virus and hence the likelihood that the virus could establish here is 
negligible.  .   
 
 
Nevertheless while reasonable from a risk and import cost perspective, abolition of measures agai nst 
bluetongue virus for imported s emen and embryos from s heep and goats could create disruption in trade 
because of a lack of alignment with the recommendations from the OIE and the requirements of other 
countries.  
6.2.3 Recommendation 
The IHS should align wit h the Code  measures.  
 
6.3 Borna disease virus 
6.3.1 Risk management measures presented in the 2005 risk analysis included:  
i. sheep and goat germplasm should be imported from countries in which the disease has never 
been reported or;  
ii. donors should be selected from floc ks with a long history of freedom from the disease in 
countries in which the disease is notifiable or in which reliable histories are available and;  
iii. aliquots of semen and embryos from each collection batch of germplasm should be inoculated 
intracerebrally into rabbits or cultured on cell cultures derived from embryonic rabbit or rat brain 
with negative results.  
6.3.2 Discussion  
Borna disease is not OIE listed.  There is no evidence that it is venereally transmitted in any species of 
animal  and the public health i mpact remains only speculative.   Measures were excluded from the IHS for 
equine germplasm from the EU, where the disease is known to occur.   
6.3.3 Recommendation 
No measures are recommended.   
 
6.4 Capripox virus ( sheep and g oat pox) 
6.4.1 Risk management measures presented in the 2005 risk analysis included:  
Donor animals (and sentinels) should:  
i. be resident in a country that is free from the disease for at least the 21 days prior to germplasm 
collection; or  
ii. not have been vaccinated against capripox; and  
a. be quarant ined for the 21 days before collection of germplasm on a germplasm 
collection centre that is free from the disease. During this period they should be 
                                                
1 For an explanation of the categories, please refer to the IETS  Manual  or the OIE Code.   
Ministry for Primary Industries   Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats • 5 regularly inspected and remain healthy. Inspection should include careful inspection 
and palpation of the skin and regular taking of temperature. If indigenous breeds of 
sheep that are of a breed that is highly resistant to sheep pox are to be donors they 
should be kept in close contact with sentinel sheep of a susceptible breed during the 
quarantine period; a nd 
b.  remain disease free from the disease for 21 days after the collection of germplasm is 
complete; and  
c.  the germplasm collection centre should be situated in a sheep and goat pox -free 
zone.  
6.4.2 Discussion  
Sheep and goat pox is an OIE listed disease and there  are Code  recommendations for import of semen.  
The Code  prescribes premises and zone freedom that may or may not be combined with vaccination of 
the donor.  The Code  has no measures for embryos, but those prescribed for semen are also suitable for 
embryos . 
 
The use of sentinel sheep is not prescribed by the Code  and is not scientifically justifiable; there is no 
transmission early in the disease and animals with mild and inapparent infections rarely transmit 
disease.  The detailed description of donor insp ections is not recommended in the Code  and hence will 
not be included.   
6.4.3 Recommendation 
The IHS should either require country freedom for germplasm donors or should be aligned with the Code  
measures.  
 
6.5 Crimean Congo haemorrhagic fever virus (CCHF)  
6.5.1 Risk management measures presented in the 2005 risk analysis included:  
Donors should:  
i. have been resident for at least the 21 days before germplasm collection in a country that is free 
from the disease; or  
ii. be scrupulously treated with a suitable acaricide and inspected to ensure that they are free from 
ticks and placed in isolation in tick -free germplasm collection premises. They should be kept in 
quarantine for a minimum of 3 weeks immediately before the start of and also during semen or 
embryo collection and regularly inspected and maintained in a tick -free state throughout the 
period of quarantine; or  
iii. donors should be serologically tested within one week prior to the start of germplasm collection 
and 3 -8 weeks after germplasm collection is completed. Germplas m collected from animals that 
were serologically positive at the first test and did not have a rising titre at the second test 
would be suitable for export. Germplasm from animals that are negative at both tests would be 
suitable for export. Germplasm from  animals that sero -convert or have rising titres between the 
two tests should be disqualified from being exported to New Zealand. If any animal from a group of donors is disqualified due to the testing procedures, germplasm from all animals in the 
group sh ould be disqualified.  
6.5.2 Discussion  
Whilst it is an OIE listed disease, there is no Code  chapter. It is only briefly mentioned in the bunyaviral 
disease chapter.    
 
Although the known vector of CCHF is not present in New Zealand, bringing infected germplasm i nto 
New Zealand could have severe public health impact.  Viraem ic animals could appear healthy , 
increasing the chances of infected germplasm reaching New Zealand . An infected animal’s blood or 
other tissue could lead to human infection with a  mortality rat e of 30% and human -to-human 
transmission.  
 6 • Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats  Ministry for Primary Industries  There are no currently approved tests, but the risk would be considered managed by protecting donors 
from ticks for at least 21 days before collection.  
6.5.3 Recommendation 
Options could be country  freedom  or tick treatment, inspection  and quarantine.  
 
6.6 Foot and mouth disease virus (FMD)  
6.6.1 Risk management measures presented in the 2005 risk analysis included:  
Importations of semen and embryos should be restricted to importation from countries that are free fro m 
foot and mouth disease and in which vaccination is not practised.  
6.6.2 Discussion  
The IETS has categorised sheep and goat embryos as category 3. The 2011 bovine germplasm IHSs 
concluded that because of the extreme seriousness of FMD and the catastrophic consequences that 
would result from its introduction, importation should be limited t o countries or zones that are  either  free 
from FMD virus  without vaccination or be specifically approved by MPI if they are not free without 
vaccination (and therefore present a risk) .  
 
The new format of the  IHS includes a section indicating that the Competent Authority is subject to an 
assessment (see 2.3 Exporting country systems and certification). MPI will maintain a published list of 
FMD free countries (rather than referring to the Code  list). There is therefore no longer the need for a 
specific  statement regarding approval of processing, collection, and storage facilities  in the FMD section .  
 
The measure s in the Code  for FMD free countries which vaccinate are considered to manage the risk.  
6.6.3 Recommendation 
The IHS should clarify that MPI must be satisfied that the countries are free from FMD and that the 
requirements to import will align with the Code . 
 
6.7 Jaagsiekte sheep retrovirus ( ovine pulmonary adenomatosis)  
6.7.1 Risk management measures presented in the 2005 risk analysis included:  
i. germplasm should be introduced from animals that have lived their whole lives in countries that 
are free from jaagsiekte: or  
ii. only embryos should be introduced: and  
a. donor animals should be selected from flocks with a long history of freedom from 
jaagsiekte. Importation of embryos from countries where reliable records are not 
available should not be allowed; and  
b. recipients of impor ted embryos and any offspring resulting from implanted embryos 
should be held in post arrival quarantine in New Zealand for at least three and a half 
years. At the end of three and a half years recipients of germplasm and the first 
generation progeny of th e germplasm should be slaughtered and examined for the 
presence of lesions of jaagsiekte. Only second generation progeny should be released 
from quarantine when the first generation progeny have been shown to be free from 
the disease.  
6.7.2 Discussion  
Lambs are persistently infected with jaagsiekte from an early age yet disease expression may take 
several years.  Diagnosis of jaagsiekte is reliant on clinical evidence and post mortem findings, or viral 
DNA and RNA detection by PCR testing of peripheral blood mono nuclear cells.   
 
Whilst jaagsiekte is an OIE listed disease, there is no Code  chapter.  Despite the lack of international  
Ministry for Primary Industries   Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats • 7 standards for managing jaagsiekte in germplasm, some of the IRA measures are appropriate.  The 
option of post -arrival quarantine is ho wever highly restrictive and importers may attempt to avoid a 
prolonged quarantine by importing embryos via Australia.  
 
Although the IETS classifies jaagsiekte as category 3 in embryos, semen may present greater risk 
because the virus can be found in peripheral blood leukocytes.  
6.7.3 Recommendation 
The IHS should specify country freedom or a period of premises freedom.  This period should be long enough to allow clinical signs to manifest.  If premises freedom cannot be certified, a PCR test may be 
an alternativ e. 
  
The measures applied for embryos also offer an acceptable level of risk management for semen . 
 
6.8 Louping ill and related viruses  
6.8.1 Risk management measures presented in the 2005 risk analysis included:  
Germplasm donors should:  
i. have been resident in a country that is free from the disease, for at least 21 days immediately 
before and during germplasm collection; or  
ii. be scrupulously treated for ticks before being moved onto tick -free collection premises. They 
should be carefully inspected and maintained ti ck-free while on the germplasm collection 
centre. Germplasm collection should not begin until they have been on the tick -free premises 
for at least 21 days.  
6.8.2 Discussion  
These tick -borne encephalitis viruses are not transmitted by the species of ticks presen t in New Zealand 
and no evidence has been found suggesting their transmission in germplasm. Although  the disease can 
present a public health threat (rare and generally non- fatal), it is not OIE listed (with no Code  chapter or 
recommendations) .  
6.8.3 Recommendat ion 
Despite the recommendations made in the 2005 risk analysis, no measures are recommended because 
of the lack of vector in New Zealand and because germplasm is not considered to pose louping ill virus 
risk. 
 
6.9 Maedi -visna virus 
6.9.1 Risk management measures presented in the 2005 risk analysis included:  
i. donors of germplasm should have been born in and lived their entire lives in a country that is 
free from maedi -visna; or  
ii. donors should be selected from disease free flocks, preferably from flocks in officia l 
accre ditation schemes; and  
a. individual donors should be tested by an OIE recommended ELISA test 4 -8 weeks 
after collection of germplasm. Germplasm from animals that are serologically positive should be disqualified from entry into New Zealand; or  
iii. flocks that ar e not officially accredited should have been maintained as closed flocks and 
remained free from clinical disease for 3 years. A sample of sheep from the flock large enough 
to give a 99% confidence of detecting infection at a 1% prevalence rate in the flock  should be 
tested by an OIE recommended serological test (Knowles and Herrmann, 2004). Donors should be selected only from flocks shown to be maedi -visna free; and 8 • Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats  Ministry for Primary Industries  a. individual donors should be tested by an OIE recommended ELISA 4- 8 weeks after 
collection of  germplasm. Germplasm from animals that are serologically positive 
should be disqualified from entry into New Zealand.  
6.9.2 Discussion  
Infection of animals with maedi -visna occurs at a young age and seroconversion is prolonged and 
unpredictable.  In addition, a fter seroconversion, the antibody response usually persists and seropositive 
sheep and goats are regarded as virus carriers.   
 
Maedi -visna is an OIE listed disease and the IETS classifies it in sheep embryos as category 3.   
6.9.3 Recommendation 
The IHS should specify country freedom for germplasm donors . There are Code  recommendations for 
semen donors .  It is reasonable to apply the measures to embryo donors .  Since it takes 21 -28 days for 
antibodies to be detected, serological testing should align with the Code and be subsequent to entering 
isolation and then annually. If an embryo donor has not been isolated pre -collection, testing should be at 
least 21 days after entering the collection herd/flock .    
 
6.10 Nairobi sheep disease virus 
6.10.1 Risk management measures p resented in the 2005 risk analysis included:  
Donors of germplasm should:  
i. be resident in countries that are free from the disease for at least the 21 days prior to 
germplasm collection; or  
ii. be scrupulously treated for ticks before being moved onto tick -free collection premises. They 
should be carefully inspected and maintained tick -free while on the germplasm collection 
centre. Germplasm collection should not begin until they have been on the tick -free premises 
for at least 21 days.  
6.10.2 Discussion  
This virus  is transmitted by the tick Rhipicephalus appendiculatus  and is not contagious between sheep 
and goats. It presents minor public health concern (mild influenza -like disease) in the case of tick bite or 
needle stick.  Because the New Zealand cattle tick is not a known vector, the disease would be unlikely 
to establish.  Furthermore, it is unlikely that transmission would occur via germplasm collected according 
to Code  recommendations.  There is no scientific evidence supporting the imposition of measures for 
germplasm.    
 
Nairobi sheep disease is an OIE listed disease.  Although there is no Code  chapter, it is described with 
other Bunyaviruses in the Terrestrial Manual.  
6.10.3 Recommendation 
Despite the recommendations made in the 2005 risk analysis, no measures are recommended because 
of the lack of vector in New Zealand and because germplasm is not considered to pose Nairobi sheep 
disease virus risk.  
 
6.11 Peste des p etits ruminants virus (PPR) and r inderpest virus 
6.11.1 Risk management measures presented in the 2005 risk anal ysis included:  
The recommendations in the Terrestrial Animal Health Code for PPR should be the basis for ensuring 
that PPR and rinderpest viruses are not imported in germplasm. It is recommended that donors of 
germplasm should:   
Ministry for Primary Industries   Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats • 9 i. be kept in a country that is  free from rinderpest and PPR, for at least 3 months prior to 
collection of germplasm; or  
ii. be kept for the 21 days prior to collection, in an establishment or germplasm collection centre 
where there have been no animals introduced in the 21 days prior to co llection and no animal in 
the establishment showed signs of PPR or rinderpest at the time of collection or for the 
following 21 days. The germplasm collection centre should not be situated in a PPR infected 
zone; and  
a. the donors have not been vaccinated aga inst rinderpest or PPR and were tested with 
an OIE recommended serological test for PPR, with negative results, not less than 21 
days after collection of germplasm; or  
b. the donors have been vaccinated against PPR or rinderpest at least 21 days before 
and not more than 4 months prior to germplasm collection.  
6.11.2 Discussion  
The 2009 IRA for cattle germplasm does not include any measures for rinderpest.  In May 2011 the OIE 
and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) announced that global  
eradication of rinderpest had been achieved.  
 
PPR is an OIE listed disease and recommendations are provided for both semen and embryo imports.  
The recommendations for semen are that donors are to be clinically free of the disease at the time of 
collectio n and for 21 days after, resident in a disease free establishment (semen) or flock/herd (embryos) 
and may or may not be vaccinated.  Unvaccinated animals are also to be serologically tested.  
6.11.3 Recommendation 
No measures should be required for rinderpest.  
 For PPR the IHS should specify either country freedom or align with the Code  measures for importing 
semen and embryos from PPR -infected countries.  The Code’s requirement for serological testing of 
unvaccinated embryo donors should be extended to apply to un vaccinated semen donors.  
 
6.12 Rift Valley f ever virus (RVF)  
6.12.1 Risk management measures presented in the 2005 risk analysis included:  
To prevent the importation of infected germplasm the OIE recommendations for trade in live animals 
(Anonymous, 2004) should be applied to germplasm donors. Immediately prior to collection of 
germplasm , donors of should have:  
i. resided for the 30 days prior to the collection of germplasm and during germplasm collection in 
a Rift Valley fever -free country or zone; or  
ii.  resided for the 6 months prior to and during the collection of germplasm in a Rift Valley fever 
infected country in which climatic changes predisposing to outbreaks of Rift Valley fever have 
not occurred in the previous 6 months; or  
iii. been held in mosquito -free premises for  at least the 30 days prior to the collection of 
germplasm and during germplasm collection.  
6.12.2 Discussion  
RVF is a zoonotic disease and it is unknown whether mosquitoes indigenous to New Zealand can transmit the virus. The Code  recommends measures for in vivo   embryos but not for semen. The 
recommendations are that embryo donors are to be clinically free of the disease from 28 days prior to 28 days after collection, and either tested twice by serology (with no rise) or vaccinated .  It is reasonable to 
apply the embryo measures to semen donors.   
 10 • Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats  Ministry for Primary Industries  6.12.3 Recommendation 
Both IHSs should either require country freedom or align with the Code  measures for embryos or donors 
should be in vector -proof premises for the 30 days before and during collection.    
 
6.13 Vesicular stomatitis virus 
6.13.1 Risk management measures presented in the 2005 risk analysis included:  
Donors should:  
i.  be resident for the 21 days prior to germplasm collection and during germplasm collection, in a 
country or zone that is free from vesicular stomatitis; o r 
ii. be kept in an insect free quarantine station for at least the 30 days prior to and during 
germplasm collection; and be subjected to an OIE recommended serological test with a 
negative result, 3 -6 weeks after germplasm collection.  
6.13.2 Discussion  
Measures for vesicular stomatitis are included in the 2011 bovine germplasm IHS.  Although rare in 
small ruminants, vesicular stomatitis is a serious concern because it is clinically indistinguishable from 
FMD.  
 
Vesicular stomatitis is Code  listed and recommendations a re provided for embryo imports.  The Code  
recommends embryo donors to be resident in an establishment free of the disease and serological 
testing prior to collection.  The recommended testing does not ensure the exclusion of animals infected 
while in the e stablishment or incubating the disease at the time of collection. Also, since viraemia is not 
an issue in this disease, testing would be unnecessarily trade restrictive.  The risk should be managed through a storage requirement of at least 30 days after co llection, prior to shipment to New Zealand, 
during which time no case of VS was reported. The Code  requirement for serological testing is therefore 
not required . 
 
It is reasonable to apply the embryo measures to semen donors.   
6.13.3 Recommendation 
For consistency, measures similar to those recommended in the 2011 bovine germplasm IHS should be applied.  These measures either provide for country or zone freedom or establishment freedom at the 
time of collection and for the 30 days after.  
 
6.14 Wesselsbron disease virus 
6.14.1 Risk management measures presented in the 2005 risk analysis included:  
Prior to germplasm collection donors should have:  
i. resided for the 21 days prior to the collection of germplasm and during the collection of 
germplasm in a country or zone in which Wes selsbron disease virus does not circulate (as 
shown by serological surveys); or  
ii. been held in mosquito -free premises or area (e.g. frost prone areas during the winter) for at 
least the 21 days prior to, and during the collection of germplasm; or  
iii. been subjec ted to a serological test within a week prior to germplasm collection and again 3 -6 
weeks after germplasm collection. Germplasm would be suitable for importation if there was a 
positive test prior to germplasm collection or two negative tests. Germplasm sh ould be 
disqualified from importation if there is a rising titre or seroconversion between the two tests.  
6.14.2 Discussion  
Wesselsbron disease is not OIE listed. The virus is known to be present in semen and infected animals 
are believed to excrete the virus into germplasm during the viraemic period of 1 -4 days length.   There 
are also human he alth concerns with this virus , but the principal known vectors are not present in New  
Ministry for Primary Industries   Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats • 11 Zealand.  The risk analysts have determined that a testing requirement would be dispr oportionate to the 
risk posed by this virus.  
6.14.3 Recommendation 
Sanitary measures are warranted due to the zoonotic potential of this disease. The IHS should either 
require country freedom or premise  freedom.   
 
6.15 Brucella melitensis (caprine and o vine brucellosis)  
6.15.1 Risk management measures presented in the 2005 risk analysis included:  
It is recommended that:  
i. germplasm should be collected from animals that are resident in countries that are officially free 
from caprine and ovine brucellosis according to th e OIE standards for country freedom; or  
ii. germplasm should be collected from donors resident in flocks that are officially free from 
brucellosis according to the OIE definition for officially free flocks; or  
iii.  germplasm should be collected from donors residen t in flocks that are free from brucellosis 
according to the OIE definition of freedom from Brucellosis; and  
a. for semen -  an aliquot of semen from each batch, before addition of antibiotics, should 
be cultured for isolation of Brucella spp (Nielsen and Ewart , 2004), with negative 
results.  
b.  for embryos -  an aliquot of embryos made up from substandard embryos or an aliquot 
of available embryos, and wash fluid from the first wash without the addition of 
antibiotics should be cultured with negative results.  
c. After  removal of the aliquots for testing, embryos and semen should be further 
processed according to standard methods with the addition of antibiotics.  
6.15.2 Discussion  
Caprine and ovine brucellosis are OIE listed.  There is a Code  chapter with descriptions for off icially free 
countries or zones, officially free flocks/herds, and free flocks/herds. It also recommends measures for embryos and semen (either official flock/herd freedom or flock/herd freedom combined with donor 
testing) and the OIE provides a testing pr otocol to ensure semen collection centre disease freedom.   
6.15.3 Recommendation 
The IHS should either require official country, zone or flock/herd freedom or donors should align with the 
Code  recommendations.   
 
6.16 Mycoplasma and related mollicutes   
6.16.1 Risk management measures presented in the 2005 risk analysis included:  
Either:  
i. donors should be selected from countries that are free from ( contagious bovine 
pleuropneumonia ) CCPP and contagious agalactia; and  
a. aliquots of semen and embryos from each collection batch should be cultured for 
Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma spp. and all isolates identified. Once isolates have been 
identified a decision should be made about whether to allow importation of the 
germplasm; or: 
ii. flocks from which donors are selected should be s ubjected to serological testing using OIE 
recommended tests (Nicholas, 2004; Rurangirwa and Kinyili, 2004). The numbers of animals 
sampled for testing should be sufficient to detect infection in a flock with 99% confidence at a 
flock prevalence of 1%. The serological tests should be conducted with Mycoplasma 
agalactiae, Mycoplasma capricolum subsp. capricolum, Mycoplasma mycoides subsp.mycoides 
and Mycoplasma capricolum subsp. capripneumoniae antigens.  12 • Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats  Ministry for Primary Industries  a. donors should be selected only from flocks that are sh own to be free from 
Mycoplasma spp. antibodies; and  
b.  individual donors should be isolated in a collection facility situated in a CCPP -free 
zone, for the 45 days immediately before germplasm collection; and  
c. donors should be tested with negative results, by OIE recommended serological tests 
with Mycoplasma agalactiae, Mycoplasma capricolum subsp. capricolum, Mycoplasma 
mycoides subsp. mycoides and Mycoplasma capricolum antigens, between 14 -28 
days after completion of germplasm collection; and  
d. aliquots of semen and embryos from each collection batch should be cultured for 
Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma spp. and all isolates should be identified. Once isolates 
have been identified a decision should be made about whether to allow importation of 
the germplasm.  
6.16.2 Discussi on 
Whilst the IRA refers to various mycoplasmas, only pathogens that are OIE listed or those that have been classified in a risk analysis as a significant risk should be included in the IHS.  
 In the case of contagious bovine pleuropneumonia (CBPP), this ha s been isolated from sheep and 
goats, but the infection is mild and since it is unlikely a bacteraemia develops, germplasm will not be 
infected.  With regard to M. bovis , natural infection is not considered to cause disease in sheep and 
goats, and no evidence could be found that sheep and goats may transmit this to cattle.  
 
The only mycoplasmas  of concern in sheep and goats are the causative organisms of contagious 
agalactia and contagious caprine pleuropneumonia (CCPP), both of which are OIE listed.  The IETS 
classifies Mycoplasmas in goat embryos as category 4.   
 
For contagious agalactia the Code  makes recommendations for the import of live sheep and goats and it 
is reasonable to apply these measures to embryo donors.   Although there is no OIE presc ribed test, 
there are Code  recommended protocols to ensure semen collection centre disease freedom from 
contagious agalactia.   
 
There are Code  recommendations for CCPP for import of caprine embryos.  They include flock/herd and 
zone freedom, isolation, an d donor and germplasm testing.  There are also Code  recommended testing 
protocols to ensure semen collection centre disease freedom from CCPP.   
6.16.3 Recommendation 
In the case of contagious agalactia the semen IHS should either require country freedom or align with 
the Code.  The Code has semen collection centre testing protocols, which follow the recommendations 
for live animal importation, except that 21 days in PEI  is not required.  Testing should also be required 
since there is a subclinical carrier state which persists for longer than 6 months. Embryos should be 
subject to the same requirements as semen.  
 CCPP requirements should only apply to goats.  The IHS shou ld either require country freedom or in the 
case of semen align with the Code  recommended semen collection centre testing protocols and in the 
case of embryos with the Code  recommendations applicable to embryos.  Although the Code  measure 
for embryos does not describe a serological testing regime, the Code  semen testing protocol does and it 
should also be an option for embryo donors.  Although the Code does not include a PCR option for 
semen, it does for embryo collection fluids and this option should be in cluded for semen. There will not 
be a requirement which prevents vaccinated donors, however at this time tests are unable to distinguish 
between natural and vaccine induced antibodies and a donor which tests positive would not be 
permitted.  
  
  
Ministry for Primary Industries   Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats • 13 6.17 Salmonella spp 
6.17.1 Risk management measures presented in the 2005 risk analysis included:  
It is recommended that:  
Aliquots of semen and embryos and wash fluid from embryo processing should be cultured according to 
OIE recommended culture methods. All isolated strains of Salmonella spp. should be fully identified 
before final clearance is given to import germplasm. Aliquots of semen for culturing should be collected 
in pre -enrichment media before the addition of extender containing antibiotics to the semen. Embryos 
that ar e substandard for use as embryos for transplantation should be used for culturing. If no 
substandard embryos are available then an aliquot of embryos should be used for culturing. In addition 
the first washing of embryos should be carried out in medium tha t does not contain antibiotics and this 
medium should be centrifuged and the deposit cultured. Entry of germplasm that is contaminated with 
any Salmonella of a species that is exotic to or unwanted in New Zealand should be prohibited.  
6.17.2 Discussion  
The most l ikely way that sheep and goat germplasm would be contaminated with Salmonella  is from 
septicaemic/bacteraemic donors or from the environment.  However, since the Code  specifies hygiene 
standards during germplasm collection and donors are certified as being  clinically healthy at the time of 
collection, such contamination is unlikely.  
 
Also, no evidence was found suggesting that salmonellosis is likely to be transmitted via germplasm that 
has been collected according to Code  recommendations.  Furthermore the  risk of exotic Salmonella  
being introduced into New Zealand is insignificant when compared to the risk from human travellers 
entering the country.  
6.17.3 Recommendation 
No specific measure for Salmonella  is recommended other than the general Code  requirement tha t 
bactericidal antibiotics are added to imported germplasm.  
 
6.18 Mycobacterium caprae and bovis 
6.18.1 Risk management measures presented in the 2005 risk analysis included:  
It is recommended that:  
i. germplasm donors should originate from countries in which tuberculosi s does not occur in 
goats; or  
ii. if imported from countries where tuberculosis is endemic in goats donors should be sourced 
from accredited flocks; and  
a. donors should be tested, with negative results, by the tuberculin test and the gamma 
interferon test within  30 days after the collection of germplasm.  
6.18.2 Discussion  
Tuberculosis is rare in sheep, but less rare in goats. M.caprae  has not been reported in New Zealand 
and there is a National Pest Management Strategy aimed at the eradication of tuberculosis (M. bovis) . 
 
There are no Code  recommendations for tuberculosis in sheep and goats but the Code  does make 
recommendations for semen collection centre testing protocols for goats.  
6.18.3 Recommendation 
No measures should be required for sheep germplasm.  
 
In the case of goat s, the IHS should either require country freedom or align with the Code  recommended 
semen collection centre testing protocols.  These measures should be adapted and applied to embryo donors.  14 • Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats  Ministry for Primary Industries  6.19 Leptospira serovars  
6.19.1 Risk management measures presented in the 2005 risk analysis included:  
Germplasm should be prepared according to the recommendations of OIE Terrestrial Animal Health 
(Anonymous, 2003, 2004b) and IETS (IETS, 2002) including the use of penicillin and streptomycin in 
semen diluents and embryo washing me dia as recommended in the OIE Terrestrial Animal Disease [sic] 
Code (2004) for bovine semen (Article 3.2.1.9) and embryos ( Code Section 3.3.2.4).  
6.19.2 Discussion  
Leptospira  are sensitive to several antibiotics and germplasm can be treated by using suitable antibiotics 
in germplasm.  
6.19.3 Recommendation 
No specific measure for Leptospira  is recommended other than the general Code  requirement that 
bactericidal antibiotics are added to imported germplasm.  
 
6.20 Chlamydia abortus (enzootic abortion of ewes, EAE)  
6.20.1 Risk management measures presented in the 2005 risk analysis included:  
It is recommended that:  
i. donors should be selected from animals that have been resident since birth or for the previous 
2 years in a country that is free from the infection; or  
ii. donors should be selected from flocks or from animals kept on germplasm collection centres that are infection -free as defined in the OIE Terrestrial Animal Health Code; and  
a. individual donors  should be tested serologically using an OIE recommended test, 2 -3 
weeks after germplasm collection; and  
b. aliquots of semen and embryos should be tested for Chlamydia by culture, PCR or 
antigen detection ELISA. In the case of embryos, wash fluid and embryos  that are 
substandard and not suitable for export, could be used for testing; or  
iii. a sample of the flock should be tested with negative results by an OIE recommended 
serological test, the sample being large enough to give a 99% confidence of detecting infect ion 
at a prevalence of 1%. Donors should only be selected from flocks that are shown to be free 
from the infection; and  
a. individual donors should be tested serologically using an OIE recommended test, 2 -3 
weeks after germplasm collection; and  
b. aliquots of se men and embryos should be tested for Chlamydia by culture, PCR or 
antigen detection ELISA. In the case of embryos, wash fluid and embryos that are 
substandard and not suitable for export, could be used for testing.  
6.20.2 Discussion  
EAE is an economically signifi cant disease, which poses a public health threat, and infected animals can 
be subclinically infected.  
 
The IETS classifies EAE as category 4 and there is a Code  chapter with recommendations for semen; 
these measures require donors originate from a free establishment and testing of donor and semen.  
The Code  describes measures for an EAE free flock and this includes a testing regime required to 
demonstrate flock f reedom.  Since the estimated prevalence would vary for each country, the Competent 
Authority should determine a statistically valid testing regime with an appropriate confidence level.  It is 
reasonable to adapt the semen measures for embryo donors.   
6.20.3 Reco mmendation 
The IHS should either require country freedom or align with the Code  measures for semen.  These 
measures should also apply to embryo donors.   
Ministry for Primary Industries   Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats • 15 6.21 Coxiella burnetii (Q Fever)  
6.21.1 Risk management measures presented in the 2005 risk analysis included:  
i. donor s should be scrupulously treated with a suitable acaricide and inspected to ensure that 
they are free from ticks and placed in isolation in tick -free germplasm collection premises. They 
should be kept in quarantine for a minimum of 4 weeks days immediately  before the start of 
semen or embryo collection and regularly inspected and maintained in a tick -free state 
throughout the period of quarantine and germplasm collection; and  
a. donors should be tested by a complement fixation test or ELISA, with negative results 
14-30 days after the final collection of the germplasm. A positive test should result in 
prohibition of importation of the germplasm.  
6.21.2 Discussion  
Q fever is not an economically significant disease of livestock but can cause serious disease in humans.  
It is OIE listed but there is no Code  chapter with recommendations for germplasm.   
Venereal transmission in cattle has been reported and the presence of Coxiella burnetii  in sheep and 
goat semen is possible.  If it were to be introduced, the New Zealand ca ttle tick could become infected 
and could transmit the disease.  
6.21.3 Recommendation 
For consistency, measures similar to those required in the 2011 bovine germplasm IHS should be 
applied.  The option of flock/herd isolation and testing should, however, not be included because 
infection can spread over large distances by aerosol.   
 
Options provided should be either serological testing of the donor or PCR testing of the germplasm.  
Owing to the intermittent shedding of the organism it is recommended that animals that have previously 
been confirmed  positive be disqualified from importation.  
 
6.22 Scrapie  
6.22.1 Risk management measures presented in the 2005 risk analysis included:  
For embryos:  
• The international standard  
• Importation of embryos from scrapie- free countries  
• Importation of embryos from scrapie- free flocks  
• Restrict donors to particula r genotypes  
• Restrict donors to animals over a certain age  
• Restrict donors to animals negative on RAMALT biopsy  
• Restrict donors to animals negative on bioassay  
• Quarantine of offspring  
 
For semen:  
• The international standard  
• Importation of semen from scrapie- free countries  
• Importation of semen from scrapie- free flocks  
• Restrict rams to particular genotypes  
• Restrict rams to animals over a certain age  
• Restrict donors to rams negative on RAMALT biopsy  
• Restrict donors to rams negative on bioassay  
• Quarantine of offspring  
 
 16 • Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats  Ministry for Primary Industries  6.22.2 Discussion  
Scrapie is OIE listed.  The Code  has Articles for both semen (sheep and goats) and embryos ( in vivo -
derived goat embryos) and also provides requirements for a scrapie -free establishment.  The Code  also 
has general recommendations for disease prevention and control (Section 4) which should be applied as 
stated in the Code.  
 The IETS classifies scrapie in sheep embryos as category 1 and the Code  states no measures (beyond 
Chapter 4.7) are required for importation, irrespective of the origin of the donor.   
 
However, there is less experimental data available on the risk of transmission of scrapie in goat 
embryos, and therefore the IETS classification of scrapie in go at embryos is category 4.  
 
There is strong scientific evidence that scrapie is not transmitted via semen. However, too few 
experiments have been done to demonstrate that the risk of transmission by this route is negligible. 
Therefore,  measures are justifie d for sheep and goat semen.  
 There is good evidence in sheep that certain genotypes are resistant to scrapie, but this is not the case 
for goats.  
 
Therefore there are two options for sheep semen from countries or zones not free from scrapie: 
establishment freedom as per the Code , or restriction of imports to semen from rams of resistant 
genotypes.  
 For goat semen, there is only one option apart from country or zone freedom: establishment freedom as 
per the Code .  
 
6.22.3 Recommendation 
For goat embryos the measures in the IHS should require country or zone freedom or establishment 
freedom or the OIE recommended measures for countries or zones not free from scrapie.  
 
In accordance with the recommendations of the Code , for in -vivo derived sheep embryos the  IHS should 
require no measures beyond the Code  recommendations (collection and processing of in vivo derived 
embryos from livestock and equids), which will be stated in the general requirements section.  
 
For goat semen, the IHS should req uire country or zone freedom or establishment freedom . 
 
For sheep semen the IHS should require country or zone freedom or establishment freedom or scrapie-
resistant genotypes.