Vaccination trends and operational challenges in Peste des Petits Ruminants eradication in Ethiopia

Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) is a major transboundary disease in Ethiopia, where the national goal is eradication by 2027. However, evidence on vaccination performance and operational challenges remains limited. This study assessed vaccination trends over six years (September 2018–August 2024) and conducted surveys with animal health professionals (AHPs) (January–May 2024) to identify key enabling factors and constraints influencing eradication efforts in the North Shewa Zone. The findings revealed that a risk-based vaccination strategy (RBVS) has been implemented since 2018, focusing on high-risk areas and employing rapid antigen detection tests to confirm outbreaks. Once an outbreak is confirmed, AHPs collaborate with regional coordinators to isolate at-risk populations and administer a live attenuated PPR vaccine. Over the study period, 62 vaccination campaigns were conducted, averaging 10.3 campaigns per year. The highest number occurred in 2019 (16 campaigns, 25.81%), while the lowest was in 2022 (one campaign). Kewet district recorded the highest number of campaigns (six), whereas six districts received no vaccinations. A total of 2,917,330 small ruminants were vaccinated, with Minjar-Shenkora district reporting the highest number (384,989 animals). The year 2023 saw the peak in vaccination coverage, with 1,284,339 animals vaccinated. The study identified factors affecting eradication efforts, with key enablers including a national policy (82.6%), sufficient vaccine production (71.74%), and adequate vaccination tools (80.43%). Major challenges included budget constraints (84.78%) and security concerns (65.22%), along with operational issues such as lack of animal identification, absence of post-vaccination sero-monitoring (PVS), high herd mobility, and rapid turnover of young stock. In conclusion, these challenges may compromise vaccination effectiveness and hinder eradication efforts. Nevertheless, strong regional commitment and enabling factors provide a promising foundation for progress. To enhance PPR control and achieve eradication, the study recommends strengthening surveillance, improving post-vaccination sero-monitoring, optimizing vaccine distribution, and addressing key operational barriers.