Rise in spread of peste des petits ruminants (PPR) lineage IV associated role of wild animals in Pakistan

Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) is a highly transmissible and contagious disease in small wild and domesticated ruminants, particularly goats and sheep. Commonly called 'Goat Plague'; it's caused by Peste des Petits Ruminants Virus (PPRV). The aim of this review is to draw the attention by updating the available literature on PPRV, and stresses upon its eradication from Pakistan. Mixing of herds, movement of animals across borders, confining animals during rainy and winter seasons are risk factors for transmission of PPR. Wild small ruminants play a major role in the epidemiology of PPR. This review found out that wild animals are not responsible in the spread of PPR; there is a scope of this disease in wild ungulates. Pathological lesions and clinical signs of PPR are similar to Rinder Pest disease. Diagnosis of PPRV is possible clinical samples by several molecular and serological techniques; laboratory confirmation; post-mortem lesions; epidemiology; distinctive symptoms and general clinical observations. In Pakistan, vaccines contain Nig 75/1 strain which is being used for immunization against all PPR viruses. Current review has concluded that PPR is a significant disease of goats, sheep and small wild ruminants. However, there is a dire need of investigations to explore the role of wildlife in PPR transmission. Finally, comprehensive national programs for controlling PPR are strongly suggested.