Introduction
Common goat diseases in Kenya include Contagious Caprine Pleuropneumonia (CCPP), Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), Orf, Trypanosomiasis, Heartwater and Caprine Pox, which together cause most goat deaths. Prevention focuses on vaccination, biosecurity, proper housing, deworming, and veterinary checks.
Disease, Symptoms and Prevention
| Disease | Symptoms | Prevention |
| CCPP | Weight loss, fever, coughing, breathing issues, mucus, high temperature | Vaccination (Caprivax every 6 months), vet checks, isolate sick goats, control movement, proper housing |
| PPR | Causes fever, diarrhea, and high mortality | Vaccinate once every 3 years, Maintain strict hygiene and quarantine new animals |
| Orf | Sores on mouth, legs, teats | Orfvax vaccine yearly, separate affected animals, wear gloves for humans |
| Trypanosomiasis | Fever, anemia, swelling, tears, abortions, emaciation | Prophylaxis drugs (Samorin), tsetse control (sprays, bush clearing), trypanotolerant breeds |
| Heartwater | Sudden death, nervousness, circling, head butting | Weekly tick control with acaricides, early antibiotics |
| Caprine Pox | Red spots on body, depression, appetite loss, nasal discharge, swollen eyes | S&G Vax vaccine, antibacterial for secondary infections |
Table 1. Showing goat disease and prevention method.
Recommended Vaccination Schedule
- CCPP: Once per year Â
- PPR: Every 3 years
- Consult a veterinarian for region-specific vaccines
Biosecurity Measures
- Â Quarantine new animals for at least 2 weeks
- Limit visitors and farm access
- Disinfect equipment regularly
- Provide clean water and feed
Deworming Tips
- Deworm every 3–4 months depending on infestation
- Rotate dewormers to prevent resistance 3
- Keep housing clean and dry
- Avoid overstocking