Outbreak of Sheep and Goat Pox in Greece Leads to Mass Culling and Ongoing Biosecurity Concerns
An outbreak of sheep and goat pox in Greece has resulted in the mass culling of about 417,000 animals, representing roughly 4–5% of the pre-outbreak total. The initial case was detected on 12 November 2025, and by mid-November, 1,702 incidents had been recorded. The outbreak began in August 2024 in northern Greece and spread nationwide, with notable cullings including 873 sheep near Karditsa on 9 October and 700 on a nearby farm near Rizomylos.
Approximately 80% of Greek sheep and goat milk is used to produce feta cheese, a product with European Union protected designation of origin status. Feta must be made with at least 70% sheep milk, limiting the substitution by other types of milk. Last year, feta exports totaled €785 million, including €520 million to EU countries and €90 million to the UK.
Affected farmers have received compensation ranging from €132 to €220 per sheep depending on age; however, critics argue that this does not fully cover losses. In response to the outbreak, a National Scientific Committee for the Management and Control of Sheep and Goat Pox was established in October 2025 to oversee eradication efforts.
Authorities report that cases fell to almost zero by spring 2025, though ongoing biosecurity concerns remain. The Greek Supreme Court has ordered prosecutors to investigate possible biosecurity violations. Reports indicate ongoing gaps, including lack of lockdown zones, illegal transport of animals into disease-free areas, and burial of infected animals without notifying authorities. Some farms reportedly operate with biosecurity standards dating back to the 1960s.
Farmers have advocated for mass vaccination against the disease. Although vaccination is allowed under emergency measures by EU rules, it could label Greece as endemic for the disease and risk damaging exports. Additionally, there is currently no certified vaccine against sheep pox.
