A devastating outbreak of Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) has swept through several communities in Kabarole District, claiming the lives of over 553 goats across 116 farms. This highly contagious viral disease, also known as goat plague, has left farmers grappling with significant losses.

The most affected areas include Mugusu, Karago, Karangura, and Kasenda sub-counties. Local authorities report that the disease likely spread through communal grazing fields. Symptoms among affected animals included fever, diarrhea, mouth sores, and respiratory complications, leading to rapid deaths.

In response, the Ministry of Agriculture dispatched 10,000 doses of the PPR vaccine. So far, approximately 7,800 goats have been vaccinated in an effort to contain the outbreak. District veterinary officers are continuing to monitor the situation and urging farmers to isolate infected animals, enhance biosecurity, and cooperate with vaccination efforts.