The causative agent of peste des petits ruminants is an RNA virus of the genus Morbilivirus. The disease is characterised by fever, oculonasal discharge, necrotic lesions in the oral cavity and diarrhoea. Although it is a highly contagious disease, close contact between healthy and sick individuals is necessary for transmission. Transmission of the virus occurs through all secretions and excretions.
The disease mainly affects sheep and goats. Goats are generally considered to be more susceptible, but this is not always the case.
Currently, the disease is not present in the EU.
