Rinderpest Holding Facility (RHF)

Rinderpest Holding Facility (RHF) : Recently India has achieved a major milestone in global animal health with the ICAR-National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD) in Bhopal being designated as a Category A Rinderpest Holding Facility (RHF).

o This recognition was granted by the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

• About Rinderpest: Also known as cattle plague, it is a highly contagious viral disease affecting cloven-hoofed animals like cattle and buffalo.

o Caused by a virus from the Paramyxoviridae family (genus Morbillivirus).

While wild species (like antelopes and giraffes) may show mild symptoms, it can cause up to 100% mortality in unprotected cattle and buffalo herds.

o Symptoms include fever, mouth lesions, nasal and eye discharge, severe diarrhea, and dehydration — often leading to death within 10–15 days.

o No risk to humans; the virus does not infect people.

o Historically present in Europe, Africa, and Asia, rinderpest was officially eradicated in 2011.

o The virus spreads through direct contact — mainly via nasal secretions and body fluids of infected animals, even before visible symptoms appear.

• About WOAH : An international organization that promotes animal health and transparency in reporting animal diseases. It works to improve veterinary services, control outbreaks, and ensure safe trade in animals and animal products.

o Released its Annual Report on Antimicrobial Agents Intended for Use in Animals.

o Headquarters: Paris, France
Established in : 1924 as the Office International des Epizooties (OIE); renamed WOAH in 2003.

---