PPR also identified in Romania

PPR has only been diagnosed once before in Europe. In 2018, this viral disease of small ruminants was identified in Bulgaria. PPR is a highly pathogenic morbillivirus closely related to bovine pestivirus. The virus mainly affects sheep and goats. The pathogen can spread easily and causes large losses in sensitive populations. Direct contact with infected sheep or goats is the main route of spread of PPR. Infected sheep and goats spread the virus 2 to 3 days before symptoms appear until 3 weeks after recovery, during which time they are highly contagious to other animals. There is no question of carrier status. The virus is vulnerable in the environment, especially in warm conditions, but contaminated transport vehicles can be a source of infection. The virus can survive longer in cool conditions, for example in chilled, raw meat. Although wild ruminants can become infected with PPR, they are not thought to be a significant source of infection. Cattle can seroconvert but do not ...