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CROFTERS and farmers in the Western Isles are being warned to protect themselves and others from exposure to organo-phosphates used in sheep dipping.
Concern is being expressed at the growing number of sheep farmers and by-standers suffering from symptoms similar to severe Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, also known as Mylagic Encephalitis.
The disturbing "higher than average" level of CFS cases on the Island could be a result of OPs, claims the medical adviser to the national M.E. Association.
And speaking at a seminar last week in Stornoway, Dr Anne Macintyre expressed fears that the number of people suffering from it - which is believed to be four times more common than on the mainland - could increase even further.
"I think that there could be between 60 to 70 people on the Island who have M.E. and these incidences are higher than the international or national average," she explained.
"I am well aware of the current controversy about the possible link between organo-phosphates used in sheep dipping and M.E.
"Once someone has had exposure to the chemical and becomes ill, the symptoms are identical to M.E.
"Even when they make a recovery they could be suffering from the symptoms again a year later."
Dr Macintyre believed that "quite a lot" of the CFS cases in the Western Isles were linked to OPs and said that it was not just the people handling the sheep that were at risk.
"I have wide concerns at the number of by-standers or other people that come into contact with the chemicals.
"It can remain on clothes for up to six weeks and can affect anyone that handles it.
"I would urge farmers to keep their children and wives well away and anyone else who is not directly involved.
"Those who are doing the work should wear protective clothing and something over their face as the chemical can be inhaled."
Compulsory dipping ceased three years ago although farmers are still expected to continue protecting their flocks from scab and other parasites.
However, the medical adviser has concerns that the law could be reintroduced.
"I wish that the highest authority would take more notice of this as they are of Gulf soldiers who have become ill," she said.
"If it becomes law for all shepherds and crofters it could possibly mean that more people will become ill.
"My great hope is that scientists will come together and produce an equally effective sheep dip and phase out the old organo-phosphates."
The Government recently admitted that OPs had been present in the Gulf War theatre and could be to blame for the debilitating symptoms of the Gulf War Syndrome.
Original article Stornoway Gazette Mar 25 1997.
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