Contagious caprine pleuropneumonia: how to spot and report the disease
How to spot contagious caprine pleuropneumonia, what to do if you suspect it and measures to prevent its spread.
Contagious caprine pleuropneumonia (CCPP) affects goats, and rarely can spread to sheep in contact with the goats. It can also affect gazelle.
It does not affect humans.
CCPP is not currently present in Europe. The UK has never had an outbreak.
Contagious caprine pleuropneumonia (CCPP) is a notifiable animal disease. If you suspect this disease you must report it immediately by calling the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301. In Wales, contact 0300 303 8268. In Scotland, contact your local Field Service Office. Failure to do so is an offence.
How to spot CCPP
CCPP can cause breathing difficulties in animals - they sometimes breathe quickly with their mouth open.
Clinical signs can also include:
- weakness
- fever
- loss of appetite
- cough
- frothy discharge from the nose
- producing stringy saliva
How CCPP is spread
CCPP is spread between animals in close contact through infected droplets in the breath.
Preventing and controlling CCPP
You can help prevent the disease by practising good biosecurity on your premises.
If you import animals to the UK, you should consider if they may be carrying the disease.
If you report suspicion of CCPP, the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) vets will investigate.
If the disease is confirmed the outbreak will be controlled in line with the contingency plan for exotic notifiable diseases.
Find out more about prevention and control, read the guidance on:
- disease prevention for livestock keepers
- what happens when a notifiable disease is suspected or confirmed
Legislation relating to CCPP
The main legislation relating to CCPP is: