Minister of Agricultural Development and Food Kostas Tsiaras presented the government strategy for tackling sheep and goat pox, focusing on avoiding lockdown and providing economic support to livestock farmers. The ministry is in the final stages of negotiations with the Ministry of Finance for the disbursement of compensation worth 20 million euros to producers who were forced to cull their animals.
Strategy to avoid lockdown for sheep and goat pox
Responding to the critical question about a potential lockdown, Tsiaras emphasized: “We are neither close nor far from this scenario. Our goal is to completely avoid it.” The unanimous decision taken in cooperation with all regional governors across the country provides for strengthening existing measures.
Successfully tackling sheep and goat pox requires cooperation from all involved parties. The Ministry, the Regions responsible for implementing biosecurity measures, and livestock farmers must demonstrate collective responsibility.
Epidemiological characteristics and disease spread
The sheep and goat pox virus presents particularly challenging characteristics, as it maintains its viability for approximately six months. The complex epidemiological model of the disease makes it difficult to predict and control.
The spread from Evros throughout the Greek territory, except Crete, is attributed to the virus’s rapid transmission rate. Despite Evros county’s experience in dealing with zoonotic diseases, the detection of pox in more southern regions accelerated its dispersal.
Control challenges and animal transportation
Control of imported animals from European Union countries is not carried out systematically. The only requirement is health certification from the country of origin, based on good faith between European states.
Mechanical transmission of the virus can occur extremely easily, especially when animals graze in common areas along borders. This reality makes controlling the spread particularly difficult.
Mandatory culling and economic support
Animal culling, despite its unfortunate nature, is mandated by clear European directives. Legislation requires the culling of entire herds, even when only one animal is infected.
For economic relief of affected livestock farmers, the ministry is proceeding with the disbursement of compensation worth 20 million euros. Additionally, animal feed will be made available within the coming days to support the sector.
The difference in managing pox compared to peste lies in virus survival duration: while the peste virus survives 21 days, sheep and goat pox remains active for six months and transmits with exceptional ease.
