PPR infection confirmed in goats; vigilance intensified in Kailali and Kanchanpur

Kanchanpur: Infection of the highly contagious PPR (goat cholera) disease has been confirmed in goats in Kailali and Kanchanpur districts of Sudurpaschim Province.

According to tests conducted at the Livestock Research Laboratory in Dhangadhi, samples collected from Dhangadhi Sub-metropolitan City in Kailali, as well as Punarbas Municipality and Shuklaphanta Municipality in Kanchanpur, tested positive for PPR.

Senior veterinarian Naresh Prasad Joshi stated that the infection has been detected in goats raised by both commercial farms and local farmers. Preliminary investigations indicate that the disease spread from goats illegally imported from India without completing the required quarantine process. Authorities believe the virus may have transmitted to local herds after animals were brought in by bypassing health checks at the border.

As PPR is a viral and highly contagious disease, it can cause significant losses within a short period. Given the high risk of mortality, animal health technicians have urged farmers to remain particularly vigilant.

The Animal Services Office and the laboratory have recommended that newly purchased animals undergo mandatory health testing and be kept in quarantine for at least 21 days before being introduced to existing herds.

Farmers have been advised to immediately contact the nearest animal technician or veterinary hospital if goats show symptoms such as high fever, mouth sores, watery eyes and nose, or diarrhea.

Stakeholders emphasized that outbreaks resulting from illegal animal trafficking can severely impact the livestock sector. They called for stricter border surveillance and greater awareness among farmers to prevent further spread.