The rinderpest virus is a highly contagious virus that primarily affects cattle and other cloven-hoofed animals. It belongs to the Morbillivirus genus and causes rinderpest, a disease characterized by fever, diarrhea, and severe respiratory issues. The virus spreads through direct contact between animals and can lead to high mortality rates in affected populations. Rinderpest was once a significant threat to livestock worldwide, but a global vaccination campaign led to its eradication in 2011. This achievement marked the second viral disease ever to be eliminated, following the eradication of smallpox. The success of the rinderpest eradication program has provided valuable lessons for controlling other animal diseases.