Factors favouring elimination of the disease
The 1992, FAO Expert Consultation identified the following factors as favouring global eradication
a. Restricted geographical distribution of the disease
b. Availability of diagnostic tests
c. Transmission is by droplet, requiring relatively close contact between animals; indirect transmission is relatively insignificant;
d. Short infectious period
e. No latency or persistence except possibly aborted cows which may excrete virus for a few weeks
f. Excellent vaccine
g. Economic incentive
Nevertheless, the Consultation was also aware of impeding factors which were identified as
a. Civil strife in areas of rinderpest endemicity
b. Social and religious attitudes
c. Weaknesses of veterinary services
d. Mild or sub-clinical disease which makes surveillance difficult