2.8 WSU's reply to questions

Here are the questions I asked and the answers. Yay!


 *       During my research, I came across a woman who believes in culling all animals infected with the disease. She says that if this were done CAE would be gone in about 5-10 years. Is that possible? Can CAE be eliminated? (JE, Yes, technically, if all goat owners were to test, the occurrence of the infection and disease would be a fraction of what it currently is)
*       Where did CAE originate and how? (JE, It had been recognized clinically since the 1960's. The cause was discovered in the 1970's as a lentivirus here at WSU by Cork and Crawford. Best guess on origin, is that it crossed species from sheep who were infected with ovine progressive pneumonia-OPP)
*       My sources all say basically that CAE was discovered around 1970 but it was just a rumor. Then around 1990 studies were made that proved its existence. Is that correct? (JE, See above answer. Since the 1970's we have discovered new diagnostic assays for its' detection, and now run a state-of-the-art antibody assay using ELISA technology)
*       What were and are the percentages of goats infected with and without the active disease? (JE, this figure has changed over the years as more goat owners test, the strains become less virulent, and goats become more resistant. I generally say that for every 10 goats that become infected, 9 remain clinically normal, and 1 becomes clinical-about 10% attack rate)

They were so helpful and got back to me so quick! I'm so thankful!
kk