Twenty new measures proposed to shield livestock sector from smallpox

The 20 new measures proposed by the National Scientific Committee for the Management and Control of Smallpox, established by decision of the Minister Kostas Tsiaras, were also presented.

According to the data presented, from August 2024 to 14 November 2025, a total of 1,702 confirmed cases of smallpox in sheep and goats have been recorded across 2,135 farms, and 417,365 animals have been culled.

In addition, 6,318 compliance checks were carried out to tackle illegal movements between October and 10 November. Thirty-five infringements were recorded, and 26 arrests were made by police authorities.

To date, a total of 48,080,149 euros has been paid for regional operating costs and compensation to farmers for animals culled due to smallpox, along with 45,000,000 euros for animal feed. In the coming period, the fifth round of payments and additional targeted support will proceed, as announced by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. The measures relate to six main lines of intervention:

1. General measures:

Updating the sanctions framework
Relaxation of all restrictions ahead of the festive season
Reinforcement of veterinary staff
 Establishment of new certified laboratories
Hunting ban with compulsory disinfection
Sampling in disease-free areas

2. Movement-control measures:

Prohibition of entry for vehicles without prior notification
Compulsory disinfection of fodder and vehicles
Maintenance of entry and exit registers
24-hour disinfection stations
Control of feed movements

3. Measures at farm level:

Appointment of authorised veterinarians with clear monitoring responsibilities
Compulsory training and information for farmers
Certificates of marketability for the movement of live animals and animal products

4. Regional-level measures:

Operation of isolation stations
Quarantine stations
Early culling and burial with strict adherence to health regulations

5. Measures for the dairy industry:

Appointment of responsible veterinarians
Systematic farm reporting
Compliance with biosecurity protocols along the entire production chain

6. Financial support measures for livestock farmers:

 Direct compensation with a 50% advance payment
 Financial support for 6 + 6 months
Special allowance for grazing bans where required