The Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Animal Industry (DA-BAI) released an advisory, warning the herders and businessmen of goat and sheep, and even veterinarians about the discovered disease in Southeast Asia called Peste des petits ruminants or PPR.

The PPR is a virus affecting goats or sheep and this is highly contagious. The following symptoms include:

• Fever
• Cold or runny nose
• Eye discharges
• Mouth sores
• Pneumonia 
• Severe diarrhea

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If symptoms are observed, report immediately to the nearest veterinary or agricultural office for laboratory investigation and examination.

The Philippines is still PPR-free, according to the Agriculture Department. However, the agency reminds the herders and businessmen to maintain the safety measures to prevent the  virus transmission in the country.

Significant maintenance of farm biosecurity, cleanliness, and disinfection is strongly advised.

Also, cautious exercise in bringing in and purchasing related products originating from the countries with reported cases of PPR virus must be maintained.

Moreover, the DA assures emergency preparedness, continuous monitoring of animal health in the region, in collaboration with the World Animal Organization for Health (WOAH) and stringent surveillance and border control.

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