Risk Management Proposal  
Semen and Embryos from Sheep ( Ovis aries ) and Goats 
(Capra hircus ) 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
October 2016  
 
 
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 an y error 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  
Regulation & Assurance  
Animal Imports  
PO Box 2526  
WELLINGTON 6140  
 
Email:   animalimports@mpi.govt.nz  
Telephone:          04 89 4 0304 
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 virus (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 viruses  7 
6.9 Maedi -visna virus  7 
6.10 Nairobi sheep disease virus  8 
6.11 Peste des petits ruminants virus (PPR) and rinderpest viru s 8 
6.12 Rift Valley fever virus (RVF)  9 
6.13 Vesicular stomatitis vir us 9 
6.14 Wesselsbron disease virus  10 
6.15 Brucella melitensis  (caprine and ovine brucellosis)  10 
6.16 Mycoplasma and related mollicutes  11 
6.17 Salmonella spp. 12 
6.18 Mycobacterium caprae and bovis  13 
6.19 Leptospira serovars  13 
6.20 Chlamydia abortus (enzootic abortion of ewes, EAE)  14 
6.21 Coxiella burnetii (Q Fever)  14 
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  
Genetic material (s emen and embryos ) from sheep ( Ovis aries ) and goats ( Capra hircus ) 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 He alth (OIE) Terrestrial Animal Health Code  (the Code ) in the interim.  Also, the 
IRA does not reflect the current 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 goat 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 scrapie . 
 
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 s erves 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 a nd import requirements  of the exporting country for regulatory 
oversight of livestock and semen and embryo collection , and the capabilities and preferences of the exporting 
country’s Competent Authority. The assessments will be based on World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) 
Terrestrial Animal Health Code (the Code ), Quality of Veterinary Services.  
 
A guidance document will be issued by MPI and this will provide specific guidance information, model veterinary 
certificate s, and samples of bilaterally -agreed veterinary certification for trade in semen and embryos from sheep 
and goats. 
 
3 Objective  
The objective is to effectively manage all biosecurity risks posed by the import of semen and embryos from sheep 
and goats , 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 requirements in this document. The specific 2Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats  Ministry for Primary Industries  requirements for risk organisms, as described in the IRA, are transcribed in the RMP and r ecommendations for 
IHS requirements are provided.  
5 General Requirements  
The general requirements section of the IHS  includes risk management measures for semen or embryo donor s, 
regardless of the country’s disease freedom  claims.  Where possible,  these requ irements 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, storage, 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 involve s 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 
collection, the Code  describes three phases of risk: the health status of the flock/herd or country of origi n, the 
processes followed during collection of embryos, and the testing of embyros  collected or surveillance of the 
donors.  
 
It is recommended that t he embryo collection team should be approved by the Competent Authority. The team’s 
practices, as well as the processing and storage of embryos  and any test samples, should be in accordance with 
the Code where applicable.  
 
At the time of collection, embryo donors should be residen t in a collection flock/herd and semen donors should be 
resident in an approved semen collection facility, as per the Code . If testing before collection is permitted, the 
donor should be required to be isolated from other animals not of equivalent tested h ealth 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 o f 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 -evident , labelled  straws or containers.  
 
The IETS  Manual  provides guidance regarding washing and verification of the intact zona pellucida (intact and 
free of adherent material) after washing. These are important steps in processing to decrease the risk that risk 
organisms  are transmitted with the embryo. 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 biosecurity risks associated with the importation of semen and embryos from sheep and goat have been 
examined in the document Import Risk Analysis: Sheep and Goat Genetic Material (dated October 2005), the 
Import Risk Analysis: Scrapie in sheep and goa t germplasm (dated January 2011), the Rapid Risk Assessment: 
Schmallenberg virus in imported live animals and germplasm (dated February 2013) .  This RMP describes which 
of the potential hazards  described in the IRAs  will require risk management  and how it should be accomplished.  
 
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  semen and embryos from sheep and goats , 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 testing for animal 
import health standards (MPI -STD-TVTL).  
 
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 va ccination protocol, including vaccine type, discussion of 
potential risks with the vaccine and how they can be managed (for example, reversion to virulence), and  
Ministry for Primary Industries  Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats 3 surveillance 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 Sch mallenberg 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 again 3 -6 weeks after the 
final germplasm collection using a Simbu -group reactive cELISA. Se men 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 serologically positive at the first test or negative at 
both tests are suitable for use as germp lasm 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) viruses are arthropod -borne. No known competent vectors 
are present in New Zealand.  Establ ishment 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 di seases 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 Culicoides spp. for the 100 days immediately before semen 
collection. This should be achieve d 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 serologically with negative results for bluetongue antibodies at least every 60 days 
during ge rmplasm 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  
iv. be tested by a virus isolation procedure or PCR on the day of commence ment and conclusion 
of collection and at least every 7 days during collection of semen and on the day of collection of 
embryos.  4Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats  Ministry for Primary Industries  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 genetic material  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 because 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 measur es against 
bluetongue virus for imported semen and embryos from sheep 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 with 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 shou ld be selected from flocks 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 ino culated 
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 impact 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 goat 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 quarantined 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 
regularly inspected and remain healthy. Inspection should include careful inspecti on 
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; and  
                                                
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 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 al so 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 des cription of donor inspections 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. Germplasm 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 should be disqualified.  
6.5.2 Discussion  (updated 30/9/16)  
Whilst CCHF is an OIE listed disease, there is no Code chapter.  
The known vector of CCHF is not present in New Zealand.   There is no evidence to indicate that the 
New Zealand cattle  tick is a competent vector for CCHF virus.    
There is also no evidence that international trade in semen or embryos has been associated with the 
transmission of CCHF virus. The risk of imported germplasm containing the organism is considered 
negligible.     
6.5.3 Recommendation  
No measures are recommended d ue to negligible risk.  6Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats  Ministry for Primary Industries  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 from 
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 (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). There is therefore no longer the need 
for any specific requirement other than following the FMD recommendatio ns in the OIE Code .  
 
The measures 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 impo rt 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 imported 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 th e first 
generation progeny of the 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 mononuclear cells.  
 
Whilst jaagsiekte is an OIE listed disease, there is no Code  chapter.  Despite the lack of international 
standards for managing jaagsiekte in germplasm, some of the IRA measures are appropriate. The option 
of post-arrival quarantine is however highly restrictive and importers may attempt to avoid a prolonged 
quarantine by importing embryos via Australia.  
 
The IETS classifies jaagsiekte as category 3 in embryos  and there is strong evidence that embryo 
transfer is an effective barrier against the transmission of jaagsiekte virus. S emen may present greater 
risk because the virus can be found in peripheral blood leukocytes.   
Ministry for Primary Industries  Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats 7 6.7.3 Recommendation  
The IHS should specify country freedom , a period of premises freedom , or test ing.  This period should 
be long enough to allow clinical signs to manifest.  If premises freedom cannot be certified, a blood PCR 
test or post -mortem examination of a donor which is at least 5 years old  may be an alternative.  
 
The measures applied for emb ryos 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 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.  
6.8.2 Discussion  
These tick -borne encephalitis viruses are not transmitted by the species of ticks present in New Zealand 
and no eviden ce 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 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 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 
accreditation 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 are not officially accredi ted 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  
a. individual donors should be tested by an OIE recommended ELISA 4 -8 weeks after 
collection of germplasm. Germplasm fr om 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, after seroconversion, the  antibody response usually persists and seropositive 
sheep and goats are regarded as virus carriers.   
 8Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats  Ministry for Primary Industries  Maedi -visna is an OIE listed disease and the IETS classifies it in sheep embryos as category 3.  There 
are only Code  recommendations for semen donors.  
6.9.3 Recommendation  
Semen donors should meet the Code’s recommendations in Chapter 4.6. It is reasonable to allow 
country freedom or apply the Code's recommendations 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 
the collection flock/herd and then annually. If an embryo donor has not been in the collection flock/herd 
for 28 days before collection , testing should be at least 21 days after collection .    
 
6.10 Nairobi sheep disease virus 
6.10.1  Risk management measures presented 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 tic k bite or 
needle stick  (iatrogenic) .  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  recommendation s.  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  Recommendati on 
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 petits ruminants virus (PPR) and rinderpest virus 
6.11.1  Risk management measures presented in the 2005 risk analysis 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 ge rmplasm. It is recommended that donors of 
germplasm should:  
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 collection 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 sh ould not be situated in a PPR infected 
zone; and  
a. the donors have not been vaccinated against 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   
Ministry for Primary Industries  Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats 9 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 
collection 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 unvaccinated semen donors.  
 
6.12 Rift Valley fever 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 Va lley 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 mosq uitoes 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 before  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.   
 
6.12.3  Recommendation  
Both IHSs should either require country freedom or align with the Code  measures for embryos or donors 
shou ld 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; or  10Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats  Ministry for Primary Industries  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.  In 2014, vesicular 
stomatitis was delisted from the OIE Code .  
It is understood that vesicular stomatitis is not usually a disease of sheep and goats and it is a disease 
which lacks a period of viremia. There is a lack of any evidence that semen and embryo s from sheep 
and goats  can become contaminated with the virus.  
 
6.13.3  Recommendation  
No measures are required for vesicular stomatitis.  
 
6.14 Wesselsbron disease virus 
6.14.1  Risk management measures presented in the 2005 risk analysis included:  
Prior to germplasm collect ion 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 Wesselsbron disease virus does not circulate (as 
shown by serological surveys); or  
ii. been held in mosqui to-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 subjected to a serological test within a week prior to germplasm collection and again 3 -6 
weeks after ger mplasm collection. Germplasm would be suitable for importation if there was a 
positive test prior to germplasm collection or two negative tests. Germplasm should 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 
Zealand.  The risk analysts have determined that a testing requirement would be disproportionate to the 
risk posed by this virus.  
6.14.3  Recommendation  
Sanitary measures are warranted due to t he zoonotic potential of this disease. The IHS should either 
require country or premise freedom or serological testing.  
 
6.15 Brucella melitensis  (caprine and ovine 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 the OIE standards for country freedom; or  
ii. germplasm should be collected from donors residen t 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 resident in flocks that are free from brucellosis 
according to the OIE definition of freedom fro m 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.   
Ministry for Primary Industries  Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats 11 b.  for embryos - an aliquot of embryos made up from substan dard 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 accor ding 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 officially 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 protocol 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 subjected 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 wit h 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.  
a. donors should be selected only from flocks that are shown 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 complet ion 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 whethe r to allow importation of 
the germplasm.  
6.16.2  Discussion  
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 has 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.  
 12Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats  Ministry for Primary Industries  The only mycoplasmas  of concern in sheep and goats are the causative organisms of contagious 
agalactia and contagious caprine pleuropneum onia (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 emb ryo donors.   Although there is no OIE prescribed 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 includ e flock/herd and 
zone freedom, isolation, and 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 sh ould 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 should 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 included for semen. There will not 
be a requirement wh ich 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.  
 
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 f inal 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 are substandard for use as embryos for transplantatio n 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 that does not contain antibiotics and this 
medium shou ld 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 risk of exotic Salmonella  being introduced into New Zeala nd in sheep and goat semen and embryos 
is insignificant when compared to other pathways. The risk is considered less than that posed when 
importing other animals such as cats, dogs, and horses. Those species are imported into New Zealand 
without any specif ic measures for salmonellae. Moreover, over 4 million people enter New Zealand 
annually without any safeguards being applied for salmonellae and up to 11% are likely to be carrying 
salmonellae. The IHS specifies that animals must be clinically healthy at t he time of collection and no 
additional measures for salmonellae  are therefore required.  
6.17.3  Recommendation  
No measure s are required for Salmonella .  
Ministry for Primary Industries  Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats 13  
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 tuberculosis 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 tes ted, with negative results, by the tuberculin test and the gamma 
interferon test within 30 days after the collection of germplasm.  
6.18.2  Discussion  (updated 301/9/16)  
Tuberculosis is rare in goats and very rare in sheep. The likelihood of the organism being in germplasm 
is extremely low.  
There is a National Pest Management Strategy aimed at the eradication of tuberculosis ( M. bovis ), 
however it does not manage sheep, goats or their germplasm. Measures for M. bovis  in sheep and goat 
germplasm are therefore not wa rranted.    
M. caprae  has not been reported in New Zealand and less is known about this organism than M. 
bovis .  In view of the uncertainly, measures can be justified to manage the low risk of goat germplasm, 
but they are not warranted for sheep, which are not particularly susceptible to infection and have 
demonstrated low risk of transmission.    
While the Code  provides recommendations on testing goats for tuberculosis in Chapter 4.6, there is no 
chapter on M. caprae  and the bovine tuberculosis chapter does not include measures for sheep or 
goats.   
6.18.3  Recommendation  
No measures should be required for sheep germplasm.  
In the case of goat germplasm, the IHS should specify measures only for M. caprae .  The requirements 
should be either country freedom or those recommended in the Code for semen collection centre testing 
protocols.   These measures should be adapted and applied to goat embryo donors.  
6.19 Leptospira serovars  
6.19.1  Risk management measures presente d 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 embry o washing media 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  
The IHS should require that bactericidal  antibiotics are added to imported germplasm  as per the Code  
and IETS Manual.  14Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats  Ministry for Primary Industries  6.20 Chlamydia a bortus (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. aliquot s 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 infection 
at a prevalence of 1%. Donors should only be selected from flocks that are shown to be free 
from the infecti on; 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 embryo s, 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 significant 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  
and embryos ; these measures require donors originate from a free establishment and  donor  testing.  
The Code  describes measures for an EAE free flock and this i ncludes a testing regime required to 
demonstrate flock freedom.  Since the estimated prevalence would vary for each country, the Competent 
Authority should determine a statistically valid testing regime with an appropriate confidence level.     
6.20.3  Recommendat ion 
The IHS should either require country freedom or align with the Code  measures for semen  and embryos .   
6.21 Coxiella burnetii (Q Fever)  
6.21.1  Risk management measures presented in the 2005 risk analysis included:  
i. donors should be scrupulously treated with a suita ble 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 collecti on 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 cattle tick could become infected 
and could transmit the disease.   
Ministry for Primary Industries  Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats 15 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 particular genotypes  
 Restrict donors to animals over a certain age  
 Restrict donors to animals negative on RAMALT biopsy  
 Restrict dono rs 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 an imals over a certain age  
 Restrict donors to rams negative on RAMALT biopsy  
 Restrict donors to rams negative on bioassay  
 Quarantine of offspring  
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 scrapi e 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 information  available on the risk of transmission of scrapie in goat embr yos, and 
therefore the IETS classification of scrapie in goat 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 justified 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.  
 16Risk Management Proposal: Semen and Embryos from Sheep and Goats  Ministry for Primary Industries  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 sc rapie.  
 
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 require country or zone freedom or establishment freedom . 
 
For shee p semen the IHS should require country or zone freedom or establishment freedom or scrapie -
resistant genotypes.