Himachal Pradesh on High Alert as Goat Plague Outbreak Hits Highland Pastures
Himachal Pradesh animal husbandry authorities have sprung into action as a highly contagious viral disease known as Peste Des Petits Ruminants (PPR) has caused the deaths of at least 60 sheep and goats, with 250 more falling ill in the highland pastures of Lahaul-Spiti. PPR, which is caused by a morbillivirus, leads to common symptoms such as diarrhea and pneumonia affecting the lungs. Prompt action was taken by dispatching teams to the affected area, and samples have been sent for testing. Experts suggest that raising awareness among shepherds about the disease and its symptoms could significantly reduce the mortality rate.
PPR is caused by a virus belonging to the family paramyxoviridae and genus morbillivirus. It is one of the most highly contagious animal diseases in regions where small ruminants are crucial for livelihoods. Outbreaks usually occur when immunologically naïve animals come into contact with animals from endemic areas, particularly within migratory populations. The morbidity rate among susceptible populations can reach up to 90-100%, while mortality rates vary but can be as high as 50-100% in severe cases. The disease was first identified in the early 1940s in Ivory Coast and has since been reported in numerous countries across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. In India, PPR outbreaks have occurred in Himachal Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Telangana, Karnataka, and Chhattisgarh. According to national surveillance epidemiological data on PPR from 1995-2019, Himachal Pradesh has consistently reported the highest number of outbreaks per 100,000 population.
The host animals for PPR are predominantly goats and sheep. However, clinical cases have also been reported in other species such as antelopes and wild relatives of domesticated small ruminants. Gazelles, bushbucks, impalas, springbucks, gemsboks, bharals, Sindh ibexes, wild goats/bezoar ibexes, Nubian ibexes, Mongolian saiga antelopes, Afghan Markhor goats, Barbary sheep, and Laristan sheep have all shown susceptibility to PPRV. In addition, evidence of infection has been found in goitered gazelles, African grey duikers, Bubal hartebeests, waterbucks, kobs, and African buffaloes. Cattle may develop inapparent infections and do not transmit the disease, while pigs, although susceptible to the virus under laboratory conditions, have not yet been reported as transmitting it in the field.
The common symptoms of PPR, as explained by Dr. Naveen Singh, the deputy director of the Animal Husbandry Department, include blisters in the mouth and respiratory problems. The clinical signs can vary from per-acute to sub-acute, with the typical acute presentation characterized by fever, lacrimation, serous nasal discharge, depression, and loss of appetite. Diarrhea develops two to three days later, leading to severe dehydration. Erosions appear on the nasal and oral mucous membranes, accompanied by excessive salivation and scabs on the lips. Lacrimation and nasal discharge become profuse, resulting in crusting around the eyelids and nostrils, causing breathing difficulties. Bronchopneumonia leads to dyspnea and coughing. Pregnant females may experience abortion, and milk yield is reduced. Death occurs within 10 to 20 days after the onset of symptoms, while recovery can take a significant amount of time.
Transmission of PPR primarily occurs through aerosols or direct contact between animals in close proximity. Fomites, such as contaminated feed, pastures, and water troughs, can also spread the infection. Outbreaks tend to be more frequent during the rainy season or the dry cold season, which may be linked to increased local movement during these periods. All secretions and excretions from infected or incubating animals, including tears, nasal discharge, coughed secretions, and even milk, can serve as sources of the virus.
In Lahaul-Spiti, the recent outbreak was reported in a highland pasture near Tindi at the end of June. Approximately 40 sheep and goats have died from the disease, while 250 more have been affected. The disease was observed in three flocks. Dr. Singh reported that affected animals are receiving symptomatic treatment, and fortunately, no further fatalities have been reported at this time. Samples have been sent to Regional Disease Diagnostic Laboratory in Jalandhar, as well as other labs in Mandi and Shimla for testing. The migratory nature of the flocks makes it difficult to determine the source of the outbreak, although it is possible that a new flock may have missed the annual vaccination. To address the situation, a team comprising two doctors, two veterinary pharmacists, and two lower-level employees has been deployed at Tindi for treatment and monitoring.
The authorities are taking proactive measures to tackle the situation and minimize the impact of the goat plague outbreak. Raising awareness among shepherds about the disease and its symptoms will play a crucial role in reducing the mortality rate. Through prompt action, testing, and treatment, Himachal Pradesh aims to control the spread of Peste Des Petits Ruminants and safeguard the health and well-being of small ruminants in the region.
