THE EPIDEMIOLOGY STATUS OF PESTE DES PETITS RUMINANT AMONG SMALL RUMINANTS IN SIERRA LEONE: A REVIEW

Abstract

Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) is a highly contagious transboundary viral disease affecting goats and sheep, which are critical to rural livelihoods in Sierra Leone. Despite their economic and nutritional importance, small ruminant productivity is hindered by recurring PPR outbreaks. This review aims to assess the current epidemiological status of PPR in Sierra Leone, focusing on its diagnosis, distribution, risk factors, control efforts, and socio-economic impact, to inform strategies for disease management and eradication. A narrative literature review was conducted using articles from PubMed, Google Scholar, FAO, and WOAH databases between January and May 2025. Studies selected included case reports, outbreak investigations, and reviews focusing on PPR in Sierra Leone from 2009 to 2025. PPR is endemic in Sierra Leone with confirmed outbreaks in districts such as Makeni, Moyamba, and Kenema. Diagnostic approaches have evolved from clinical observations to laboratory confirmations using ELISA and PCR. Major risk factors include uncontrolled animal movement, cross-border trade, seasonal changes, and poor husbandry practices. Even though vaccination campaigns using the Nigeria/75/1 strain have been implemented, challenges such as vaccine shortages, low farmer awareness, and inadequate veterinary infrastructure persist. Peste des Petits Ruminants poses a significant economic and food security threat in Sierra Leone. Effective control requires a multisectoral approach combining mass vaccination, farmer education, surveillance, and regional cooperation. Strengthening veterinary systems is critical to achieving the global PPR eradication goal by 2030 and ensuring sustainable livestock development in the country.

Keywords: Peste des Petits Ruminants, small ruminants, goats, sheep, epidemiology.