Outbreak of Sheep Pox in Greece: Over 260,000 Sheep and Goats Destroyed

Over the past year, Greece has experienced a large-scale outbreak of sheep and goat pox, resulting in the culling of nearly 263,000 animals. These figures were published by the country’s Ministry of Rural Development.

The authorities have decided to implement emergency measures to prevent further spread of the infection. Over the next ten days, extensive inspections of farms will take place across the country. Veterinary services will increase oversight, disinfection stations will be set up on roads, and the movement of animals, feed, and dairy products will be strictly controlled.

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According to experts, these steps are necessary to break the chain of infection and reduce the economic damage already suffered by the livestock sector.

A European Parliament report notes that several factors contributed to the outbreak: weak veterinary control on imports, insufficient biosecurity on farms, and gaps in animal record-keeping systems.

There are also concerns about the potential spread of the disease beyond Greece. For Cyprus, where sheep and goat farming is an important part of the agricultural sector, such an epidemic could have serious consequences. Given the close trade links with mainland Greece, local authorities are already preparing for potential risks and strengthening preventive measures.