Contagious caprine pleuropneumonia (CCPP) is one of the most severe diseases of goats. This disease, which affects the respiratory tract, is extremely contagious and frequently fatal; in naive flocks, the morbidity rate may reach 100% and the mortality rate can be as high as 80%.

Etiology

Contagious caprine pleuropneumonia is caused by Mycoplasma capricolum subsp. capripneumoniae, a member of the family Mycoplasmataceae.

Transmission

Contagious caprine pleuropneumonia is highly contagious. This disease is transmitted during close contact by the inhalation of respiratory droplets. Chronic carriers may exist, but this remains unproven.

Clinical Signs

Contagious caprine pleuropneumonia is strictly a respiratory disease. Peracute, acute and chronic forms may be seen in endemic areas. Per acutely affected goats can die within 1 to 3 days with minimal clinical signs. In acute disease, the initial signs are a very high fever (41-43oC [106-109oF]) lethargy and anorexia, followed within 2 to 3 days by coughing and labored respiration. The cough is frequent, violent and productive. In the final stages of disease, the goat may not be able to move and stands with its front legs wide apart, and its neck stiff and extended. Saliva can drip continuously from the mouth, and the animal may grunt or bleat in pain. Frothy nasal discharge and stringy saliva may be seen terminally. Pregnant goats can abort Chronic CCPP is characterized by a chronic cough, nasal discharge and debilitation.

Control

In endemic areas, care should be taken when introducing new animals into the flock. Flock testing, slaughter, and on-site quarantine may be helpful in controlling the spread of disease. Vaccines help prevent disease in some countries. Some antibiotics, such as tetracyclines or tylosin, can be effective if given early.