PPR (Peste des Petits Ruminants) in Sheep and Goats: Symptoms, Treatment, and Vaccination Guide
1. Introduction: The Global Threat of "Goat Plague" Peste des Petits Ruminants, commonly referred to as " Bakra Shanti " or " Small Ruminant Plague ," is a contagious and deadly viral infection affecting goats and sheep. It is caused by a member of the Morbillivirus group. In Pakistan, small ruminants are a source of livelihood for poor rural communities, and if PPR strikes, a poor farmer will suffer a 100% loss in income. Because of its contagious nature and 90% mortality rate, Peste des Petits Ruminants has been classified as a transboundary animal disease. 2. Transmission: How the Virus Invades the Flock Before we discuss how Peste des Petits Ruminants can be controlled, let's first find out how this deadly disease spreads: Direct Contact: The direct contact between healthy and infected animals is considered the major mode of transmission. Aerosol Transmission: The Peste des Petits Ruminants virus becomes airborne when an infected goat sneeze...