Peste des petits ruminants
Peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV) is a highly contagious viral disease of sheep and goats and infection has been noted in antelope, camels and water buffalo. Cattle and pigs can be affected too, but tend not to develop clinical signs. Outbreaks result in morbidity and mortality rates as high as 90%.
If notifiable disease is suspected, contact the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or your local DAERA Direct Regional Office. Failure to do so is an offence.
Clinical signs
PPRV causes disease with an array of clinical signs. It also causes immunosuppression, which makes affected animals more likely to pick up other infections.
- Fever
- Eye and nasal discharges
- Sores in the mouth
- Diarrhoea
- Listlessness
- Respiratory signs (coughing and pneumonia)
- Abortion
How is the disease transmitted?
PPRV is transmitted through direct contact of infected and susceptible animals, via aerosolised bodily fluids over short distances, or through contaminated feed, water, pastures and animal housing. Sources of PPRV include secretions from the eyes, nose, and mouth of infected animals, as well as their faeces.
Anyone suspecting Peste des petits ruminants virus must immediately inform their local Divisional Veterinary Office.
More useful links
Peste des petits ruminants - WOAH - World Organisation for Animal Health