Mobile disinfection stations to resume operations in Rhodope

The Eastern Macedonia and Thrace Region is moving to reinstate mobile disinfection stations in Rhodope (Rodopi) amid the continued detection of sheep and goat pox cases in the regional unit.

The measure is intended to prevent the further spread of the animal disease by disinfecting commercial vehicles used by livestock farmers and residents of the area.

Rhodope Deputy Regional Governor Manolis Tapatzas said the decision was being taken as a precautionary measure in response to the ongoing cases and the risk of further transmission of the disease.

Mobile stations to operate at different locations
The mobile disinfection stations will be positioned alongside provincial roads and moved at regular intervals. Authorities say their placement will not obstruct traffic or disrupt normal road circulation.

The contractor will install visible signs at each location, using appropriate roadside markers, informing drivers that they are approaching a “vehicle disinfection point.”

Livestock farmers urged to disinfect vehicles
The regional administration is calling on livestock farmers and other vehicle users to stop and disinfect their vehicles when passing through the designated stations.

The measure is specifically aimed at professional vehicles used by livestock farmers, which can potentially contribute to the spread of sheep and goat pox between affected and unaffected areas.

Authorities say the reinstatement of the stations is necessary because of the continued presence of the disease in Rhodope and the risk of further spread among sheep and goats.

The regional administration is urging livestock farmers to cooperate with the disinfection measures as part of efforts to contain the outbreak.