The development of tests that allow the differentiation of rinderpest and peste des petits ruminants has been a major step forward and of great significance in the eradication campaigns that are in place. There is no treatment for infected animals. It is a highly contagious disease and mortality is high. However a combination of quarantine, bans in the movement of susceptible animals, and good hygiene will normally limit the extent of the outbreak. The virus is particularly fragile and is quickly inactivated by heat, desiccation and sunlight.
Prevention relies on the above together with vaccination.
The current vaccine, whilst highly effective, suffers from being heat sensitive. Nevertheless there are good prospects for the elimination of the disease over the next few years.