PPR Disease Threatens Goat Herds: Experts Warn of Rapid Spread, Urge Vaccination

• PPR (Peste des Petits Ruminants) is a highly contagious viral disease posing a serious threat to goat herds, capable of affecting an entire herd quickly.
• Symptoms include high fever, watery discharge from nose and eyes, mouth ulcers, foul-smelling diarrhea, and difficulty breathing, potentially leading to death and financial losses.
• Dr. Kinkar Kumar highlights direct contact, nasal discharge, feces, urine, and mouth ulcers as primary spread vectors, with risk increasing during cold weather.
• Timely vaccination, especially after 3-4 months of age, is the most effective prevention; isolating infected goats immediately is crucial to stop spread.
• Maintaining clean sheds, providing clean water, balanced diet, and consulting veterinarians for suspected illness are vital for prevention and herd health.