Greece tightens measures against pox disease in small ruminants
Western Thrace
Wed, 30 Jul 2025 12:24 GMT
The Greek Ministry of Agriculture has intensified precautions nationwide in response to a surge in pox disease cases among small ruminants.
The Greek Ministry of Agriculture has intensified precautions nationwide in response to a surge in pox disease cases among small ruminants. Vice Governor of East Macedonia and Thrace, Ridvan Hacı Mehmet, reported a significant increase in infections, particularly in the Rodopi and İskeçe regions.
According to Vice Governor Ridvan Hacı Mehmet, new measures and developments have been introduced for livestock producers:
Measures Implemented:
- Ban on moving animals outside.
- Surveillance using drones and cameras.
- Quarantine zones established with a 45 km radius around affected villages.
- In the Rodopi region, 98,000 animals have died, and in Xanthi, 40,000.
New Developments:
- The Ministry plans to compensate affected producers within 2024.
- Slaughterhouses in Mehrikoz and Hemetli areas are expected to reopen by August 15.
- Slaughtering is advised to begin with disease-resistant kids.
- Producers are urged to maintain strict hygiene in barns and limit visitors.
These measures aim to prevent further spread of the disease and minimize economic losses for farmers.
