Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Periparturient rise (PPR) is a temporary increase in faecal egg counts of gastrointestinal nematodes in sheep and goats during the period immediately before and after parturition.
It is mainly associated with a transient reduction in the ewe's immunity, allowing adult worms to produce more eggs.
Detailed Explanation:
Statement I:
During late pregnancy and early lactation, the immune response of sheep is temporarily suppressed because of hormonal and nutritional changes.
This relaxation of acquired immunity increases the fecundity of strongyle worms, leading to a marked rise in faecal egg counts.
Hence, Statement I is true.
Statement II:
The periparturient period coincides with the birth of lambs, which are highly susceptible to parasitic infections.
The increased shedding of strongyle eggs contaminates pasture, producing infective larvae that readily infect these young hosts.
Thus, PPR plays an important epidemiological role in ensuring the survival and propagation of the parasite population.
Therefore, Statement II is true.
Step 2: Final Answer:
Both Statement I and Statement II are true.
\[
\boxed{(A) Both Statement I and Statement II are true.
\]