History and Evolution of Contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia (CBPP): A Review of Scientific Knowledge and Control Strategies

Contagious bovine pleuropneumonia (CBPP), caused by Mycoplasma mycoides subsp. mycoides (Mmm), is one of the oldest and most persistent transboundary animal diseases affecting cattle. Historically present on all continents, the disease was eradicated from Europe, the Americas, and most Asian countries well before the etiological nature of its causative agent was fully understood. Despite these achievements, CBPP remains enzootic in several countries across Asia and sub-Saharan Africa, where it continues to impede the development of the livestock sector. In these regions, current control efforts rely on annual vaccination, serological surveillance to estimate seroprevalence, and the use of antibiotics. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the historical trajectory of the disease, its epidemiological evolution, and the various control strategies implemented over time. Key measures include early outbreak detection, enforcement of cattle movement restrictions, systematic culling of infected or suspected animals, and targeted vaccination strategies The long-term success of CBPP control will depend on the implementation of harmonized regional policies, strengthening of veterinary services, and the development of more effective vaccines.