Abstract
Background: Peste des Petits ruminants (PPR) is a highly contagious viral disease affecting small ruminants, with outbreaks reported in over 65 countries. This study aimed to assess PPR outbreaks in wildlife populations in Iran. Methods: Data on PPR outbreaks from 2001 to October 2024 were compiled from Farsi literature and the Google search engine for confirmed reports. Results: A total of 36 outbreaks were recorded among Bovidae species, including wild goats (Capra aegagrus), Mouflon (Ovis gmelini), and Urial (Ovis vignei), with over 77% occurring in protected areas. Most outbreaks (73%) occurred in summer and autumn. No outbreaks have been reported since July 2023, likely due to mass livestock vaccination as part of the national PPR eradication program. Inadequate vaccination coverage, illegal livestock trading, and non-compliance with quarantine measures have contributed to recurrent outbreaks in wildlife. Traditional livestock practices and grazing in protected areas have facilitated spillover into wild populations. Conclusions: The 36 reported outbreaks across 16 provinces, spread across diverse geographical regions, highlight the urgent need for comprehensive strategies, including consistent vaccination programs for domestic herds, stricter border control measures, and enhanced law enforcement in protected areas to prevent further outbreaks in wildlife populations.
Keywords
PPR, Outbreak, Eradication, Wildlife, Livestock