Terrestrial Animal Health Code
Terrestrial Animal Health Code |
Application for official recognition by the OIE of free status for peste des petits ruminants
Country free from infection with peste des petits ruminants virus
The following information should be provided by OIE Member Countries to support applications for official recognition of status as a country free from infection with peste des petits ruminants (PPR) virus in accordance with Chapter 14.7. of the Terrestrial Code.
The dossier provided to the OIE should address concisely all the following topics under the headings provided to describe the actual situation in the country and the procedures currently applied, explaining how these comply with the Terrestrial Code.
The terminology defined in the OIE Terrestrial Code and Terrestrial Manual should be referred to and used in compiling the dossier.
National legislation, regulations and Veterinary Authority directives may be referred to and annexed as appropriate in one of the OIE official languages. Weblinks to supporting documents in one of the official languages of the OIE may also be provided, where they exist.
All annexes should be provided in one of the OIE official languages.
The Delegate of the Member Country applying for recognition of PPR freedom for a country must demonstrate compliance with the Terrestrial Code. That is, the Delegate should submit documentary evidence that the provisions of Article 14.7.3. have been properly implemented and supervised.
In addition, the Delegate of the Member Country must submit a declaration indicating that:
there has been no outbreak of PPR during the past 24 months;
no evidence of infection with PPR virus has been found during the past 24 months;
no vaccination against PPR has been carried out during the past 24 months;
importation of domestic ruminants and their semen, oocytes or embryos is carried out in accordance with Articles 14.7.8. to 14.7.26.
In addition, the Delegate of the Member Country applying for recognition of historical freedom must also submit documentary evidence that the provisions of point 1 a) of Article 1.4.6. of the Terrestrial Code have been properly implemented and supervised.
Introduction
Geographical features (rivers, mountain ranges, etc.). Provide a general description of the country and, where relevant, of the region, including physical, geographical and other factors that are relevant to introduction of infection and spread of PPR virus, taking into account the countries sharing common borders and other epidemiologic pathways for the potential introduction of infection. Provide maps identifying the features above. Specify whether the application includes any noncontiguous territories.
Livestock demographics. Describe the composition of the livestock industry in the country. In particular, describe:
the susceptible animal population by species and types of production systems;
the number of herds or flocks, etc. of each susceptible species;
their geographical distribution;
the degree of integration and role of producer organisations in the different production systems;
any recent significant changes observed in the production (attach relevant documents if available).
Provide tables and maps.
Wildlife demographics. What susceptible captive wild, wild or feral species are present in the country? Provide estimates of population sizes and geographic distribution. What are the measures in place to prevent contact between domestic and susceptible wildlife species?
Slaughterhouses/abattoirs, markets and events associated with the congregation of susceptible livestock (e.g. fairs, shows, competitions). Where are the major livestock marketing or collection centres? What are the patterns of movement of susceptible domestic species for marketing within the country? How are the susceptible animals sourced, transported and handled during these transactions? Provide maps as appropriate.
Veterinary system
Legislation. Provide a table (and when available a weblink) listing all relevant veterinary legislation, regulations and Veterinary Authority directives in relation to PPR and a brief description of the relevance of each. The table should include, but not be limited to, the legislation on disease control measures and compensation systems.
Veterinary Services. Describe how the Veterinary Services of the country comply with Chapters 1.1., 3.1. and 3.2. of the Terrestrial Code. Describe how the Veterinary Services supervise, control, enforce and monitor all PPR-related activities. Provide maps, figures and tables wherever possible.
Provide information on any OIE PVS evaluation conducted in the country and follow-up steps within the PVS Pathway and highlight the results relevant to PPR and the susceptible species.
Provide a description of the involvement and the participation of industry, producers, farmers, including subsistence and small-scale producers, keepers, veterinary paraprofessionals including community animal health workers, and other relevant groups in PPR surveillance and control. Provide a description of the structure and role of the private veterinary sector, including the number of veterinarians and their distribution, in PPR surveillance and control. Include a description of continuing education and awareness programmes on PPR at all relevant levels.
Animal identification, registration, traceability and movement control. Are susceptible animals identified (individually or at a group level)? Provide a description of the traceability system, including methods of animal identification and establishment or herd or flock registration, applicable to all susceptible species. How are animal movements controlled in the country for all susceptible species? Provide evidence of the effectiveness of animal identification and movement controls and a table describing the number, species, origin and destination of the animals and their products moved within the country in the past 24 months. Provide information on pastoralism, transhumance and related paths of movement.
Describe the risk management strategy for uncontrolled movements of susceptible species (e.g. seasonal migration for pastures and water).
Describe the actions available under national legislation. Provide information on illegal movements detected in the past 24 months and the action taken.
PPR eradication
History. If infection has never occurred in the country, or has not occurred within the past 25 years, state explicitly whether or not the country is applying for recognition of historical freedom according to point 1 a) of Article 1.4.6. of the Terrestrial Code.
If infection has occurred in the country within the past 25 years, provide a description of the PPR history in the country, with emphasis on recent years. If applicable, provide tables and maps showing the date of first detection, the sources and routes of introduction of infection, the temporal and spatial distribution (number and location of outbreaks per year), the susceptible species involved, and the date of last case or eradication in the country.
Strategy. Describe how PPR was controlled and eradicated (e.g. stamping-out policy, modified stamping-out policy, zoning, vaccination, movement control). Provide the time frame for eradication. Describe and justify the corrective actions that have been implemented to prevent future outbreaks of PPR in response to any past incursions of PPR virus.
Vaccines and vaccination. Briefly answer the following:
Is there any legislation that prohibits vaccination? If so:
Provide the date when vaccination was formally prohibited;
Provide information on cases of detection of illegal vaccination during the reporting period and actions taken in response to the detection.
Was vaccination ever used in the country? If so:
Provide the date when the last vaccination was carried out;
What type of vaccine was used?
What species were vaccinated?
How were vaccinated animals identified?
What was the fate of those animals?
In addition, if vaccination was applied during the past 24 months, provide a description and justification of the vaccination strategy and programme, including the following:
the vaccine strains;
the species vaccinated;
identification of vaccinated animals;
the way in which the vaccination of animals was certified or reported and the records maintained;
evidence that the vaccine used complies with Chapter 2.7.10. of the Terrestrial Manual.
Provide a description of the legislation, organisation and implementation of the eradication campaign. Outline the legislation applicable to the eradication and how the campaign was organised at different levels. Indicate if detailed operational guidelines exist and give a brief summary.
PPR diagnosis
Provide documentary evidence that the relevant provisions of Chapters 1.1.2., 1.1.3. and 2.7.10. of the Terrestrial Manual are applied. The following points should be addressed:
Is PPR laboratory diagnosis carried out in the country? If so, provide an overview of the PPR-approved laboratories in the country, including the following:
How the work is shared between different laboratories, logistics for shipment of samples, the follow-up procedures and the time frame for reporting results;
Details of test capability and the types of tests undertaken and their performance for their applied use (specificity and sensitivity per type of test). Provide details of the number of PPR tests performed in the past 24 months in national laboratories and in laboratories in other countries, if relevant;
Procedures for quality assurance and for the official accreditation of laboratories. Give details of formal internal quality management systems, e.g. Good Laboratory Practice, ISO, etc. that exist in, or are planned for, the laboratory system;
Provide details of performance in inter-laboratory validation tests (ring trials), including the most recent results and, if applicable, the corrective measures applied;
Provide details of the handling of live pathogenic agent, including a description of the biosecurity and biosafety measures applied;
Provide a table identifying the tests carried out by each of the laboratories where they are performed, the quality accreditation and biosecurity standards followed and the proficiency tests carried out.
If PPR laboratory diagnosis is not carried out in the country, provide the names of the laboratories in other countries providing the service as well as the arrangements in place, including logistics for shipment of samples and the time frame for reporting results.
PPR surveillance
Provide documentary evidence that surveillance for PPR in the country complies with Articles 14.7.27. to 14.7.33. of the Terrestrial Code, and Chapter 2.7.10. of the Terrestrial Manual. The following information should be included:
What are the criteria for raising a suspicion of PPR? What is the procedure to notify (by whom and to whom) and what incentives are there for reporting and what penalties are involved for failure to report?
Describe how clinical surveillance is conducted, including which sectors of the livestock production system are included in clinical surveillance, such as establishments, markets, fairs, slaughterhouses/abattoirs, check points, etc.
Provide a summary table indicating, for the past 24 months, the number of suspected cases, the number of samples tested for PPR, species, type of sample, testing methods and results (including differential diagnosis). Provide an indication of the timelines of the response including completion of testing to confirm or exclude PPR. Provide details of follow-up actions taken on all suspicious and positive results.
Serological surveillance. Are serological surveys conducted? If so, provide detailed information on the target population, design prevalence, confidence level, sample size, stratification, sampling methods and diagnostic tests used in accordance with Articles 14.7.27. to 14.7.33. of the Terrestrial Code. Are susceptible wildlife species included in serological surveys? If not, explain the rationale.
Provide a summary table indicating, for the past 24 months, the number of samples tested for PPR, species, type of sample, testing methods and results (including differential diagnosis). Provide details of follow-up actions taken on all suspicious and positive results and on how these findings are acted upon. Provide criteria for selection of populations for targeted surveillance and numbers of animals examined and samples tested in diagnostic laboratories. Provide details of the methods selected and applied for monitoring the performance of the surveillance programme including indicators.
Provide information on risks in different husbandry systems, and provide evidence that targeted studies are implemented to address gaps (e.g. targeted serological surveys, active surveillance, participatory epidemiology studies, risk assessments, etc.). Provide evidence of how the knowledge acquired through these activities assisted in more effective implementation of control measures.
Provide details of the oversight of surveillance programmes by the Veterinary Services including training programmes for personnel involved in clinical and serological surveillance, and the approaches used to increase community involvement in PPR surveillance programmes.
PPR prevention
Describe the procedures in place to prevent the introduction of PPR into the country, including details of:
Coordination with other countries. Describe any relevant factors in neighbouring countries that should be taken into account (e.g. size, distance from the border to affected herds or flocks or animals). Describe coordination, collaboration and information-sharing activities with other countries in the same region or ecosystem.
Are protection zones in place? If so, provide details of the measures that are applied (e.g. vaccination, intensified surveillance, density control of susceptible species), and provide a geo-referenced map of the zones.
Describe the measures implemented to effectively prevent the introduction of the pathogenic agent, taking into consideration physical or geographical barriers. Describe the measures implemented to prevent the spread of the pathogenic agent within the country. Provide evidence that measures to reduce transmission of PPR are in place at markets, such as enhancing awareness of PPR transmission mechanisms and human behaviour that can interrupt transmission, and implementation of good biosecurity, hygiene and disinfection routines at critical points all along the production and marketing networks (typically where animals are being moved and marketed through the country or region).
Import control procedures
Provide information on countries, zones or compartments from which the country authorises the import of susceptible animals or their products into the country. Describe the criteria applied to approve such countries, zones or compartments, the controls applied to entry of such animals and products, and subsequent internal movement. Describe the import measures (e.g. quarantine) and test procedures required. Advise whether imported animals of susceptible species are required to undergo a quarantine or isolation period and, if so, the duration and location of quarantine. Advise whether import permits and international veterinary certificates are required.
Describe any other procedures used for assessing the risks posed by import of susceptible animals or their products. Provide summary statistics on imports of susceptible animals and their products for at least the past 24 months, including temporary import and re-entry, specifying countries, zones or compartments of origin, species and the quantity or volume and eventual destination in the country.
Provide a map showing the number and location of all ports, airports and land border crossings. Describe the management structure, staffing levels and resources of the service responsible for import controls and its accountability to the central Veterinary Services. Describe the communication systems between the central authorities and the border posts, and between border posts.
Cite the regulations and describe procedures, type and frequency of checks, and management of noncompliance at the points of entry into the country or their final destination, concerning the import and follow-up of the following:
animals;
genetic material (semen, oocytes and embryos);
animal products;
other materials at risk of being contaminated with PPR virus.
Control measures and contingency planning
List any written guidelines, including contingency plans, available to the Veterinary Services for dealing with suspected or confirmed outbreaks of PPR. The contingency plan should be attached as an annex in one of the OIE official languages. If not available, provide a brief summary of what is covered. Provide information on any simulation exercise for PPR that was conducted in the country in the past five years.
In the event of a suspected or confirmed PPR outbreak:
Are quarantine measures imposed on establishments with suspected cases, pending final diagnosis? What other procedures are followed with respect to suspected cases (e.g. livestock standstills)?
Indicate the sampling, dispatch and testing procedures that would be used to identify and confirm presence of the pathogenic agent;
Describe the actions that would be taken to control the disease situation in and around the establishments where the outbreak is confirmed;
Provide a detailed description of the control or eradication procedures (e.g. forward and backward tracing, disinfection of establishments, vehicles and equipment, including verification methods, vaccination, stamping-out policy, movement control, control of wildlife, pastured sheep and goats, methods of disposal of carcasses and other contaminated products or materials, decontamination, campaigns to promote awareness of farmers, etc.) that would be taken. In the case of emergency vaccination, indicate the source and type of vaccine and provide details of any vaccine supply scheme and stocks;
Describe the criteria and procedures that would be used to confirm that an outbreak has been successfully controlled or eradicated, including restocking strategies, use of sentinel animals, serological surveillance programmes, etc.;
Give details of any compensation that would be made available to owners, farmers, etc. when animals are slaughtered for disease control or eradication purposes and the prescribed timetable for payments;
Describe how control efforts, including vaccination and biosecurity, would target critical risk control points.
Recovery of free status
Member Countries applying for recognition of recovery of free status for a country should comply with the provisions of Article 14.7.7. of the Terrestrial Code and provide detailed information as specified in Sections 1 to 7 of this questionnaire. Information in relation to other sections need only be supplied if relevant.
Zone free from infection with peste des petits ruminants virus
The following information should be provided by OIE Member Countries to support applications for official recognition of status as a zone free from infection with peste des petits ruminants (PPR) virus in accordance with Chapter 14.7. of the Terrestrial Code.
The dossier provided to the OIE should address concisely all the following topics under the headings provided to describe the actual situation in the country and the procedures currently applied, explaining how these comply with the Terrestrial Code.
The terminology defined in the OIE Terrestrial Code and Terrestrial Manual should be referred to and used in compiling the dossier.
National legislation, regulations and Veterinary Authority directives may be referred to and annexed as appropriate in one of the OIE official languages. Weblinks to supporting documents in one of the official languages of the OIE may also be provided, where they exist.
All annexes should be provided in one of the OIE official languages.
The Delegate of the Member Country applying for recognition of PPR freedom for a zone must demonstrate compliance with the Terrestrial Code. That is, the Delegate should submit documentary evidence that the provisions of Article 14.7.3. have been properly implemented and supervised.
In addition, the Delegate of the Member Country must submit a declaration indicating that:
there has been no outbreak of PPR during the past 24 months;
no evidence of infection with PPR virus has been found during the past 24 months;
no vaccination against PPR has been carried out during the past 24 months;
importation of domestic ruminants and their semen, oocytes or embryos is carried out in accordance with Articles 14.7.8. to 14.7.26.
In addition, the Delegate of the Member Country applying for recognition of historical freedom must also submit documentary evidence that the provisions of point 1 a) of Article 1.4.6. of the Terrestrial Code have been properly implemented and supervised.
Introduction
Geographical features (rivers, mountain ranges, etc.). Provide a general description of the country and the zone, and where relevant of the region, including physical, geographical and other factors that are relevant to introduction of infection and spread of PPR virus, taking into account the countries or zones sharing common borders and other epidemiologic pathways for the potential introduction of infection.
The boundaries of the zone must be clearly defined, including a protection zone if applied. Provide maps identifying the features above, including a digitalised, geo-referenced map with a precise text description of the geographical boundaries of the zone.
Livestock demographics. Describe the composition of the livestock industry in the country and the zone. In particular, describe:
the susceptible animal population by species and types of production systems in the country and the zone;
the number of herds or flocks, etc. of each susceptible species;
their geographical distribution;
the degree of integration and role of producer organisations in the different production systems;
any recent significant changes observed in the production (attach relevant documents if available).
Provide tables and maps.
Wildlife demographics. What susceptible captive wild, wild or feral species are present in the country and the zone? Provide estimates of population sizes and geographic distribution. What are the measures in place to prevent contact between domestic and susceptible wildlife species?
Slaughterhouses/abattoirs, markets and events associated with the congregation of susceptible livestock (e.g. fairs, shows, competitions). Where are the major livestock marketing or collection centres? What are the patterns of movement of susceptible domestic species for marketing within the country or zone, and between zones of the same or different status? How are the susceptible animals sourced, transported and handled during these transactions? Provide maps as appropriate.
Veterinary system
Legislation. Provide a table (and when available a weblink) listing all relevant veterinary legislation, regulations and Veterinary Authority directives in relation to PPR and a brief description of the relevance of each. The table should include, but not be limited to, the legislation on disease control measures and compensation systems.
Veterinary Services. Describe how the Veterinary Services of the country comply with Chapters 1.1., 3.1. and 3.2. of the Terrestrial Code. Describe how the Veterinary Services supervise, control, enforce and monitor all PPR-related activities. Provide maps, figures and tables wherever possible.
Provide information on any OIE PVS evaluation conducted in the country and follow-up steps within the PVS Pathway and highlight the results relevant to PPR and the susceptible species.
Provide a description of the involvement and the participation of industry, producers, farmers, including subsistence and small-scale producers, keepers, veterinary paraprofessionals including community animal health workers, and other relevant groups in PPR surveillance and control. Provide a description of the role and structure of the private veterinary sector, including the number of veterinarians and their distribution, in PPR surveillance and control. Include a description of continuing education and awareness programmes on PPR at all relevant levels.
Animal identification, registration, traceability and movement control. Are susceptible animals identified (individually or at a group level)? Provide a description of the traceability system, including methods of animal identification and establishment or herd or flock registration, applicable to all susceptible species. How are animal movements controlled in and between zones of the same or different status for all susceptible species ? Provide evidence of the effectiveness of animal identification and movement controls and a table describing the number, species, origin and destination of the animals and their products moved within the country in the past 24 months. Provide information on pastoralism, transhumance and related paths of movement.
Describe the risk management strategy for uncontrolled movements of susceptible species (e.g. seasonal migration for pastures and water).
Describe the actions available under national legislation. Provide information on illegal movements detected in the past 24 months and the action taken.
PPR eradication
History. If infection has never occurred in the zone, or has not occurred within the past 25 years, state explicitly whether or not the zone is applying for recognition of historical freedom according to point 1 a) of Article 1.4.6. of the Terrestrial Code.
If infection has occurred in the zone within the past 25 years, provide a description of the PPR history in the country and zone, with emphasis on recent years. If applicable, provide tables and maps showing the date of first detection, the sources and routes of introduction of infection, the temporal and spatial distribution (number and location of outbreaks per year), the susceptible species involved, and the date of last case or eradication in the zone.
Strategy. Describe how PPR was controlled and eradicated in the zone (e.g. stamping-out policy, modified stamping-out policy, zoning, vaccination, movement control). Provide the time frame for eradication. Describe and justify the corrective actions that have been implemented to prevent future outbreaks of PPR in response to any past incursions of PPR virus.
Vaccines and vaccination. Briefly answer the following:
Is there any legislation that prohibits vaccination? If so:
Provide the date when vaccination was formally prohibited;
Provide information on cases of detection of illegal vaccination during the reporting period and actions taken in response to the detection.
Was vaccination ever used in the country? If so:
Provide the date when the last vaccination was carried out;
What type of vaccine was used in the zone and the rest of the country?
What species were vaccinated?
How were vaccinated animals identified?
What was the fate of those animals?
In addition, if vaccination was applied during the past 24 months, provide a description and justification of the vaccination strategy and programme, including the following:
the vaccine strains;
the species vaccinated;
identification of vaccinated animals;
the way in which the vaccination of animals was certified or reported and the records maintained;
evidence that the vaccine used complies with Chapter 2.7.10. of the Terrestrial Manual.
Provide a description of the legislation, organisation and implementation of the eradication campaign. Outline the legislation applicable to the eradication and how the campaign was organised at different levels. Indicate if detailed operational guidelines exist and give a brief summary.
PPR diagnosis
Provide documentary evidence that the relevant provisions of Chapters 1.1.2., 1.1.3. and 2.7.10. of the Terrestrial Manual are applied. The following points should be addressed:
Is PPR laboratory diagnosis carried out in the country? If so, provide an overview of the PPR-approved laboratories in the country. Indicate the laboratories where samples originating from the zone are diagnosed. Address the following points:
How the work is shared between different laboratories, logistics for shipment of samples, the follow-up procedures and the time frame for reporting results;
Details of test capability and the types of tests undertaken and their performance for their applied use (specificity and sensitivity per type of test). Provide details of the number of PPR tests performed in the past 24 months in national laboratories and in laboratories in other countries, if relevant;
Procedures for quality assurance and for the official accreditation of laboratories. Give details of formal internal quality management systems, e.g. Good Laboratory Practice, ISO, etc. that exist in, or are planned for, the laboratory system;
Provide details of performance in inter-laboratory validation tests (ring trials), including the most recent results and, if applicable, the corrective measures applied;
Provide details of the handling of live pathogenic agent, including a description of the biosecurity and biosafety measures applied;
Provide a table identifying the tests carried out by each of the laboratories where they are performed, the quality accreditation and biosecurity standards followed and the proficiency tests carried out.
If PPR laboratory diagnosis is not carried out in the country, provide the names of the laboratories in other countries providing the service as well as the arrangements in place, including logistics for shipment of samples and the time frame for reporting results.
PPR surveillance
Provide documentary evidence that surveillance for PPR in the zone complies with Articles 14.7.27. to 14.7.33. of the Terrestrial Code and Chapter 2.7.10. of the Terrestrial Manual. The following information should be included:
What are the criteria for raising a suspicion of PPR? What is the procedure to notify (by whom and to whom), what incentives are there for reporting and what penalties are involved for failure to report?
Describe how clinical surveillance is conducted, including which sectors of the livestock production system are included in clinical surveillance, such as establishments, markets, fairs, slaughterhouses/abattoirs, check points, etc.
Provide a summary table indicating, for the past 24 months, the number of suspected cases, the number of samples tested for PPR, species, type of sample, testing methods and results (including differential diagnosis). Provide an indication of the timelines of the response including completion of testing to confirm or exclude PPR. Provide details of follow-up actions taken on all suspicious and positive results.
Serological surveillance. Are serological surveys conducted? If so, provide detailed information on the target population, design prevalence, confidence level, sample size, stratification, sampling methods and diagnostic tests used in accordance with Articles 14.7.27. to 14.7.33. of the Terrestrial Code. Are susceptible wildlife species included in serological surveys? If not, explain the rationale.
Provide a summary table indicating, for the past 24 months, the number of samples tested for PPR, species, type of sample, testing methods and results (including differential diagnosis). Provide details of follow-up actions taken on all suspicious and positive results and on how these findings are acted upon. Provide criteria for selection of populations for targeted surveillance and numbers of animals examined and samples tested in diagnostic laboratories. Provide details of the methods selected and applied for monitoring the performance of the surveillance programme including indicators.
Provide information on risks in different husbandry systems, and provide evidence that targeted studies are implemented to address gaps (e.g. targeted serological surveys, active surveillance, participatory epidemiology studies, risk assessments, etc.). Provide evidence of how knowledge acquired through these activities assisted in more effective implementation of control measures.
Provide details of the oversight of surveillance programmes by the Veterinary Services including training programmes for personnel involved in clinical and serological surveillance, and the approaches used to increase community involvement in PPR surveillance programmes.
PPR prevention
Describe the procedures in place to prevent the introduction of PPR into the country or zone, including details of:
Coordination with other countries. Describe any relevant factors in neighbouring countries and zones that should be taken into account (e.g. size, distance from the border to affected herds or flocks or animals). Describe coordination, collaboration and information-sharing activities with other countries and zones in the same region or ecosystem.
If the PPR free zone is established in a PPR infected country or borders an infected country or zone, describe the animal health measures implemented to effectively prevent the introduction of the pathogenic agent, taking into consideration existing physical or geographical barriers.
Are protection zones in place? If so, indicate whether or not the protection zones are included in the proposed free zones. Provide details of the measures that are applied (e.g. vaccination, intensified surveillance, density control of susceptible species), and provide a geo-referenced map of the zones.
Describe the measures implemented to effectively prevent the introduction of the pathogenic agent, taking into consideration physical or geographical barriers. Describe the measures implemented to prevent the spread of the pathogenic agent within the country or zone. Provide evidence that measures to reduce transmission of PPR are in place at markets, such as enhancing awareness of PPR transmission mechanisms and human behaviour that can interrupt transmission, and implementation of good biosecurity, hygiene and disinfection routines at critical points all along the production and marketing networks (typically where animals are being moved and marketed through the country or region).
Import control procedures
Provide information on countries, zones or compartments from which the country authorises the import of susceptible animals or their products into the country or zone. Describe the criteria applied to approve such countries, zones or compartments, the controls applied to entry of such animals and products, and subsequent internal movement. Describe the import measures (e.g. quarantine) and test procedures required. Advise whether imported animals of susceptible species are required to undergo a quarantine or isolation period and, if so, the duration and location of quarantine. Advise whether import permits and international veterinary certificates are required.
Describe any other procedures used for assessing the risks posed by import of susceptible animals or their products. Provide summary statistics on imports of susceptible animals and their products for at least the past 24 months, including temporary import and re-entry, specifying countries, zones or compartments of origin, species and the quantity or volume and eventual destination in the country or zone.
Provide a map showing the number and location of all ports, airports and land border crossings. Describe the management structure, staffing levels and resources of the service responsible for import controls and its accountability to the central Veterinary Services. Describe the communication systems between the central authorities and the border posts, and between border posts.
Cite the regulations and describe procedures,
type and frequency of checks, and management of noncompliance at
the points of entry into the zone or
their final destination, concerning the import and follow-up of
the following:
animals;
genetic material (semen, oocytes and embryos);
animal products;
other materials at risk of being contaminated with PPR virus.
Control measures and contingency planning
List any written guidelines,
including contingency plans, available to the Veterinary Services for
dealing with suspected or confirmed outbreaks of
PPR. The contingency plan should be attached as an annex in one
of the OIE official languages. If not available, provide a brief
summary of what is covered. Provide information on any simulation
exercise for PPR that was conducted in the country in the past five
years.
In the event of a suspected or confirmed
PPR outbreak:
Are quarantine measures imposed
on establishments with
suspected cases, pending final
diagnosis? What other procedures are followed with respect to suspected cases (e.g.
livestock standstills)?
Indicate the sampling, dispatch and testing
procedures that would be used to identify and confirm presence of
the pathogenic agent;
Describe the actions that would be taken to control the disease situation in and around the establishments where the outbreak is confirmed;
Provide a detailed description of the control or eradication procedures (e.g. forward and backward tracing, disinfection of establishments, vehicles and equipment, including verification methods, vaccination, stamping-out policy, movement control, control of wildlife, pastured sheep and goats, methods of disposal of carcasses and other contaminated products or materials, decontamination, campaigns to promote awareness of farmers, etc.) that would be taken; in the case of emergency vaccination, indicate the source and type of vaccine and provide details of any vaccine supply scheme and stocks;
Describe the criteria and procedures that would be used to confirm that an outbreak has been successfully controlled or eradicated, including restocking strategies, use of sentinel animals, serological surveillance programmes, etc.;
Give details of any compensation that would be made available to owners, farmers, etc. when animals are slaughtered for disease control or eradication purposes and the prescribed timetable for payments;
Describe how control efforts, including vaccination and biosecurity, would target critical risk control points.
Recovery of free status
Member Countries applying for recognition of recovery of free status for a zone should comply with the provisions of Article 14.7.7. of the Terrestrial Code and provide detailed information as specified in Sections 1 to 7 of this questionnaire. Information in relation to other sections need only be supplied if relevant.
Application for endorsement by the OIE of an official control programme for peste des petits ruminants
The following information should be provided by OIE Member Countries to support applications for endorsement by the OIE of an official control programme for peste des petits ruminants (PPR) in accordance with Chapter 14.7. of the Terrestrial Code.
The dossier provided to the OIE should address concisely all the topics under the headings provided in Sections 1 to 4 to describe the actual situation in the country and the procedures currently applied, explaining how these comply with the Terrestrial Code.
In Sections 3 f) to 3 i) describe concisely the work plan and timelines of the control programme for the next five years.
The terminology defined in the OIE Terrestrial Code and Terrestrial Manual should be referred to and used in compiling the dossier.
National legislation, regulations and Veterinary Authority directives may be referred to and annexed as appropriate in one of the OIE official languages. Weblinks to supporting documents in one of the official languages of the OIE may also be provided, where they exist.
All annexes should be provided in one of the OIE official languages.
The Delegate of the Member Country applying for endorsement of the official control programme should submit documentary evidence that the provisions of Article 14.7.34. have been properly implemented and supervised. In addition, the Delegate of the Member Country must submit the detailed national official control programme for PPR.
Introduction
Geographical features (rivers, mountain ranges, etc.). Provide a general description of the country and zones, and where relevant of the region, including physical, geographical and other factors that are relevant to introduction of infection and spread of PPR virus, taking into account the countries or zones sharing common borders and other epidemiologic pathways for the potential introduction of infection. Provide maps identifying the features above. Specify whether the application includes any noncontiguous territories.
If the endorsed plan is implemented in stages to specific parts of the country, the boundaries of the zones should be clearly defined, including the protection zones if applied. Provide a digitalised, geo-referenced map with a description of the geographical boundaries of the zones.
Livestock demographics. Describe the composition of the livestock industry in the country and any zones. In particular, describe:
the susceptible animal population by species and types of production systems;
the number of herds or flocks, etc. of each susceptible species;
their geographical distribution;
the degree of integration and role of producer organisations in the different production systems;
any recent significant changes observed in the production (attach relevant documents if available).
Provide tables and maps.
Wildlife demographics. What susceptible captive wild, wild or feral species are present in the country and any zones? Provide estimates of population sizes and geographic distribution. What are the measures in place to prevent contact between domestic and susceptible wildlife species?
Slaughterhouses/abattoirs, markets and events associated with the congregation of susceptible livestock (e.g. fairs, shows, competitions). Where are the major livestock marketing or collection centres? What are the patterns of movement of susceptible domestic species for marketing within the country? How are the susceptible animals sourced, transported and handled during these transactions? Provide maps as appropriate.
Veterinary system
Legislation. Provide a table (and when available a weblink) listing all relevant veterinary legislation, regulations and Veterinary Authority directives in relation to the PPR control programme and a brief description of the relevance of each. The table should include, but not be limited to, the legislation on disease control measures and compensation systems.
Veterinary Services. Describe how the Veterinary Services of the country comply with Chapters 1.1., 3.1. and 3.2. of the Terrestrial Code. Describe how the Veterinary Services supervise, control, enforce and monitor all PPR-related activities. Provide maps, figures and tables wherever possible.
Provide information on any OIE PVS evaluation
conducted in the country and follow-up steps within the PVS Pathway
and highlight the results relevant to PPR and the susceptible species.
Provide a description of the involvement
and the participation of industry, producers, farmers, including subsistence
and small-scale producers, keepers, veterinary paraprofessionals including
community animal health workers, and other relevant groups in PPR surveillance and
control. Provide a description of the role and structure of the
private veterinary sector, including the number of veterinarians and
their distribution, in PPR surveillance and
control. Include a description of continuing education and awareness
programmes on PPR at all relevant levels.
Animal identification,
registration, traceability and movement control. Are susceptible
animals identified (individually or at a group level)? Provide a
description of the traceability system, including methods of animal identification and establishment or herd or flock registration
applicable to all susceptible species. How are animal movements
controlled in the country for all susceptible species? Provide evidence
of the effectiveness of animal identification and
movement controls and a table describing the number, species, origin
and destination of the animals and their products moved within the
country in the past 24 months. Provide information on pastoralism,
transhumance and related paths of movement.
Describe the risk management strategy for uncontrolled movements of susceptible species (e.g. seasonal migration for pastures and water).
Describe the actions available under national legislation. Provide information on illegal movements detected in the past 24 months and the action taken.
Official control programme for PPR submitted for OIE endorsement
Submit a concise plan of the measures for the control and eventual eradication of PPR in the country, including:
Epidemiology
Describe the PPR history in the country, with emphasis on recent years. Provide tables and maps showing the date of first detection, the number and location of outbreaks per year, the sources and routes of introduction of infection, the types and lineages present, the susceptible species involved and the date of implementation of the control programme in the country.
Describe the epidemiological situation of PPR in the country and the surrounding countries or zones highlighting the current knowledge and gaps. Provide maps of:
the geography of the country with the relevant information concerning PPR situation;
small ruminant density and movements and estimated PPR prevalence.
PPR surveillance
Provide documentary evidence that surveillance for
PPR in the country complies with Articles 14.7.27. to 14.7.33. of the Terrestrial Code,
and Chapter 2.7.10. of the Terrestrial Manual.
The following information should be included :
What are the criteria for raising a suspicion of PPR? What is the procedure to notify (by whom and to whom) and what incentives are there for reporting and what penalties are involved for failure to report?
Describe how clinical surveillance is conducted, including which sectors of the livestock production system are included in clinical surveillance, such as establishments, markets, fairs, slaughterhouses/abattoirs, check points, etc. Provide details of follow-up actions taken on clinical suspicions.
Serological or virological surveillance. Explain whether or not serological or virological surveys are conducted and, if so, how frequently and for what purpose. Provide detailed information on the target population, design prevalence, confidence level, sample size, stratification, sampling methods and diagnostic tests used in accordance with Articles 14.7.27. to 14.7.33. of the Terrestrial Code. Are susceptible wildlife species included in serological or virological surveys? If not, explain the rationale.
Provide a summary table indicating, for at least
the past 24 months, the number of suspected cases,
the number of samples tested for PPR, species, type of sample, testing
methods and results (including differential diagnosis). Provide
procedural details of follow-up actions taken on suspicious and
positive results and on how these findings are interpreted and acted
upon.
Provide criteria for selection of populations for
targeted surveillance and numbers of animals examined and samples
tested in diagnostic laboratories. Provide
details of the methods selected and applied for monitoring the performance
of the surveillance programme
including indicators.
Provide information on the level of risk in different
husbandry systems, and provide evidence that targeted studies are
implemented to address gaps (e.g. targeted serological surveys,
active surveillance,
participatory epidemiology studies, risk assessments,
etc.) and that the acquired knowledge assists in more effective
implementation of control measures.
Provide details of the oversight of surveillance programmes by the Veterinary Services including training programmes for personnel involved in clinical, serological and virological surveillance, and the approaches used to increase community involvement in PPR surveillance programmes.
Provide evidence that surveys are carried out to assess vaccination coverage and population immunity of the target populations, show analysis of surveillance data to assess the change in PPR prevalence over time in the target populations, assess the control measures (cost effectiveness, degree of implementation, impact). Provide information on outcomes of outbreak investigations including outbreaks that have occurred despite control measures, documented inspections showing compliance with biosecurity and hygiene requirements.
PPR diagnosis
Provide documentary evidence that the relevant
provisions of Chapters 1.1.2., 1.1.3. and 2.7.10. of the Terrestrial Manual are
applied. The following points should be addressed:
Is PPR laboratory diagnosis carried out in the country? If so, provide an overview of the PPR-approved laboratories in the country, including the following:
How the work is shared between different laboratories, logistics for shipment of samples, the follow-up procedures and the time frame for reporting results;
Details of test capability and the types of tests undertaken and their performance for their applied use (specificity and sensitivity per type of test). Provide details of the number of PPR tests performed in the past 24 months in national laboratories and in laboratories in other countries, if relevant;
Procedures for quality assurance and, if available, the official accreditation of laboratories. Give details of formal internal quality management systems, e.g. Good Laboratory Practice, ISO, etc. that exist in, or are planned for, the laboratory system;
Provide details of performance in inter-laboratory validation tests (ring trials), including the most recent results and, if applicable, the corrective measures applied;
Provide details of the handling of live pathogenic agent, including a description of the biosecurity and biosafety measures applied;
Provide a table identifying the tests carried out by each of the laboratories where they are performed, the quality accreditation and biosecurity standards followed and the proficiency tests carried out.
If PPR laboratory diagnosis is not carried out in the country, provide the names of the laboratories in other countries providing the service as well as the arrangements in place, including logistics for shipment of samples and the time frame for reporting results.
Strategies
Provide a description of the legislation, organisation and implementation of the current PPR control programme. Outline the legislation applicable to the control programme and how its implementation is organised at different levels. Indicate if detailed operational guidelines exist and give a brief summary.
Describe PPR control strategies in the country
or any zones, including
in terms of animal movement control, fate of infected and in-contact
animals and vaccination.
Strategies should be based on the assessment of the PPR situation
in the zones, country
and region.
Provide information on what types of vaccines
are used and which species are vaccinated. Provide evidence that
the vaccine used complies with Chapter 1.1.8. of the Terrestrial Manual.
Provide information on the licensing process for the vaccines used.
Describe the vaccination programme
in the country and any zones, including
records kept, and provide evidence to show its effectiveness, such as vaccination coverage,
population immunity, etc. Provide details of the studies carried
out to determine the vaccination coverage
and the population immunity, including the study designs and the results.
Describe how the stamping-out policy is
implemented in the country or any zones and
under which circumstances.
In the event of outbreaks,
provide evidence of the impact of the control measures already implemented on
the reduction in number of outbreaks and
their distribution. If possible, provide information on primary and
secondary outbreaks.
PPR prevention
Describe the procedures in place to prevent the introduction of PPR into the country, including details of:
Coordination with other countries. Describe any relevant factors in neighbouring countries and zones that should be taken into account (e.g. size, distance from the border to affected herds or flocks or animals). Describe coordination, collaboration and information-sharing activities with other countries and zones in the same region or ecosystem.
Are protection zones in place? If so, provide details of the measures that are applied (e.g. vaccination, intensified surveillance, density control of susceptible species), and provide a geo-referenced map of the zones.
Describe the measures implemented to effectively prevent the introduction of the pathogenic agent, taking into consideration physical or geographical barriers. Describe the measures implemented to prevent the spread of the pathogenic agent within the country or zone. Provide evidence that measures to reduce transmission of PPR are in place at markets, such as enhancing awareness of PPR transmission mechanisms and human behaviour that can interrupt transmission, and implementation of good biosecurity, hygiene and disinfection routines at critical points all along the production and marketing networks (typically where animals are being moved and marketed through the country or region).
Import control procedures
Provide information on countries, zones or compartments from which the country authorises the import of susceptible animals or their products into the country or any zones. Describe the criteria applied to approve such countries, zones or compartments, the controls applied to entry of such animals and products and subsequent internal movement. Describe the import measures (e.g. quarantine) and test procedures required. Advise whether imported animals of susceptible species are required to undergo a quarantine or isolation period and, if so, the duration and location of quarantine. Advise whether import permits and international veterinary certificates are required.
Describe any other procedures used for assessing the risks posed by import of susceptible animals or their products. Provide summary statistics on imports of susceptible animals and their products for at least the past 24 months, including temporary import and re-entry, specifying countries, zones or compartments of origin, species and the quantity or volume and eventual destination in the country. Provide information on whether or not outbreaks have been related to imports or transboundary movements of domestic animals.
Provide a map showing the number and location of all ports, airports and land border crossings. Describe the management structure, staffing levels and resources of the service responsible for import controls and its accountability to the central Veterinary Services. Describe the communication systems between the central authorities and the border posts, and between border posts.
Cite the regulations and describe procedures, type and frequency of checks, and management of noncompliance at the points of entry into the country or their final destination, concerning the import and follow-up of the following:
animals;
genetic material (semen, oocytes and embryos);
animal products;
other materials at risk of being contaminated with PPR virus.
Describe the actions available under national
legislation. Provide information on illegal movements detected in
the past 24 months and the action taken.
Work plan and timelines of the control programme
for the next five years, including cessation of vaccination. Describe
the progressive objectives including expected status to be achieved
in the next five years: for zones (if
applicable) and for the whole country.
Performance indicators and timeline. The
performance indicators should relate to the most important areas and
steps where improvements in the programme are needed. These may
include, but are not restricted to, strengthening Veterinary Services,
legislation, reporting, availability and quality of vaccines, animal identification systems, vaccination coverage,
population immunity, movement control, disease awareness, livestock
owners' participatory perception on the effectiveness of the programme,
etc. The progressive reduction of outbreak incidence
towards elimination of PPR virus transmission in all susceptible
livestock in at least one zone of
the country should also be measured and monitored.
Assessment of the evolution of the official control programme since the first date of implementation. This should include documented evidence demonstrating that the control programme has been implemented and that the first results are favourable. Measurable evidence of success such as the performance indicators should include, but not be limited to, vaccination data, decreased prevalence, successfully implemented import measures, control of animal movements and finally decrease or elimination of PPR outbreaks in the whole country or selected zones as described in the programme. This should include documented evidence of the effective implementation of Sections 3 d) to 3 e) above.
Describe the funding for the control programme and annual budgets for its duration.
Control measures and emergency response
List any written guidelines, including contingency plans, available to the Veterinary Services for dealing with suspected or confirmed outbreaks of PPR. The contingency plan should be attached as an annex in one of the OIE official languages. If not available, provide a brief summary of what is covered. Provide information on any simulation exercise for PPR that was conducted in the country in the past five years.
In the event of a suspected or confirmed PPR outbreak:
Are quarantine measures imposed on establishments with suspected cases, pending final diagnosis? What other procedures are followed regarding suspected cases (e.g. livestock standstills)?
Indicate the sampling, dispatch and testing procedures that would be used to identify and confirm presence of the pathogenic agent;
Describe the actions that would be taken to control the disease situation in and around the establishments where the outbreak is confirmed;
Describe in detail the control or eradication procedures (e.g. forward and backward tracing, disinfection of establishments, vehicles and equipment, including verification methods, vaccination, stamping-out policy, movement control, control of wildlife, pastured sheep and goats, methods of disposal of carcasses and other contaminated products or materials, decontamination, campaigns to promote awareness of farmers) that would be taken. In the case of emergency vaccination, indicate the source and type of vaccine and provide details of any vaccine supply scheme and stocks;
Describe the criteria and procedures that would be used to confirm that an outbreak has been successfully controlled or eradicated, including restocking strategies, use of sentinel animals, serological surveillance programmes, etc.;
Provide details of any compensation that would be made available to owners, farmers, etc. when animals are slaughtered for disease control or eradication purposes and the prescribed timetable for payments;
Describe how control efforts, including vaccination and biosecurity, would target critical risk control points.
nb: first adopted in 2009; most recent update adopted in 2018.
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