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Researchers celebrate progress to eradicate PPR virus
RVC researchers are working with a range of global partners to tackle PPR.
RVC shares details of research to compact this deadly disease of livestock.

Researchers are celebrating progress made in eradicating peste des petits ruminants (PPR) virus globally.

PPR is a severe gastrointestinal and respiratory disease of sheep, goats and wildlife. Fatal in up to 90 per cent of cases, the condition threatens the livelihood of farmers across Africa, Asia and the Middle-east. Concerns have also been raised about its impact on biodiversity and its effect on women in particular. 

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the number of outbreaks of PPR has fallen by two-thirds in recent years, raising hopes for the goal of global eradication by 2030.

Researchers at the RVC say that the key to this eradication will be understanding the role of wildlife in transmission and ensuring that no persistence in wildlife infection complicates vaccine implementation in livestock. 

Working with its global partners, including the Pirbright Institute, CIRAD France, University of Glasgow, the College’s research has already led to several important findings, including: 
  • identifying a wide host range for the virus in African buffalo, antelope species and wild suids across East Africa 
  • determining estimated and true PPR virus antibody prevalence statistic for certain species in specific ecosystems
  • establishing evidence for spillover of the virus from small domestic ruminants to wildlife 
  • confirming the nature and patterns of disease in small livestock in East Africa 
  • providing important science for determining eradication policy and methods for surveillance and monitoring the disease.

Richard Kock, chair in wildlife health and emerging diseases at the RVC, said: “The PPR virus has now become the focus of the international community for the elimination of the second animal virus of economic and environmental significance by 2030 and our work has been fundamental in establishing the new global research network and strategy for this process.”

Image (C) RVC.

 

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.