Import risk analysis: Llamas (Lama glama) and alpacas (Vicugna ...

35.2. RISK ASSESSMENT
35.2.1. Entry assessment
Since Psoroptes ovis, Microthoracius spp. and Vermipsylla spp. of mites, lice and fleas
respectively are known to infest camelids the likelihood that they could be introduced on
the commodity is assessed to be non-negligible.
35.2.2. Exposure assessment
Introduced camelids would be mixed with New Zealand camelids and other potential host
animals. Mites, fleas and lice could be transferred to other camelids and other species by
close contact, in bedding and from fomites such as grooming and shearing equipment.
Therefore, the likelihood of exposure is assessed to be non-negligible.
35.2.3. Consequence assessment
Re-introduction of the mite Psoroptes ovis could result in ‘sheep scab’ affecting llama,
alpaca and sheep flocks with the resultant economic losses incurred from self trauma and
damaged fleeces. Should control and eradication be initiated, active surveillance,
movement control and compulsory treatment regimes including the destruction of flocks
may be necessary to stamp-out the mite.
Lice are likely to be broadly host specific and unlikely to transfer to humans or animals
other than camelids. In camelids they could be responsible for damaged fibre, skin
irritation and dermatitis. Heavy infestations of young animals could cause anaemia and
poor growth. Louse infestation could be spread to other camelids by movement of animals.
Vermipsylla spp. have been found on a variety of wild and domestic animals (Zedev 1976)
and introduction of infested animals could lead to infestations of wild and domestic
animals but it is unlikely to affect humans. Infestation of livestock could result in skin
irritation and loss of condition but fleas of camelids have not been shown to be vectors of
any disease agent (Wernery & Kaaden 2002b).
Since new species of mite, lice and fleas could be introduced by camelids the
consequences of introduction are assessed to be non-negligible.
35.2.4. Risk estimation
Since entry, exposure and consequence assessments are all non-negligible, the risk is
assessed as non-negligible and mites, fleas and lice are classified as hazards in the
commodity. Therefore, risk management measures may be justified.
35.3. RISK MANAGEMENT
35.3.1. Options
The following points were considered when drafting options for the effective management
of mites, fleas and lice associated with the commodity:
� New Zealand has eradicated the mite P. ovis that causes the condition “sheep scab”
and should seek to preserve this status.
MAF Biosecurity New Zealand Import risk analysis: Llamas and alpacas from specified countries ● 133