Sheep and Goat Pox Outbreak in Greece Leads to Widespread Culling and Economic Concerns
Since August 2024, Greece has faced a severe outbreak of sheep and goat pox, initially detected in northern regions and by November 2025 spreading nationwide. Approximately 1,702 incidents have been logged, leading to the culling of about 417,000 sheep and goats—roughly 4 to 5% of the pre-outbreak total. Culling measures are enforced immediately upon detection of any case, as seen in Thessaly's Karditsa area where 650 animals were culled after a case on 12 November.
This outbreak significantly threatens Greece's feta cheese industry, which relies on about 80% of the country's sheep and goat milk. Feta, a protected designation of origin product in the EU, must contain at least 70% sheep milk. Last year, feta exports reached €785 million, including €520 million to EU markets and €90 million to the UK. Supply constraints caused by continued culling may result in shortages or increased prices if the outbreak persists.
Farmers are compensated between €132 and €220 per culled sheep depending on the animal's age, but many report that these payments do not fully cover their losses. The outbreak has also taken an emotional toll on farmers, with reports of empty farms and closed shops disrupting rural livelihoods.
Criticism has been directed at the government's response, which some say was slow. A National Scientific Committee for Sheep and Goat Pox was only established in October 2025, 14 months after the initial case. Moreover, no lockdown zones were initially set up, veterinary services are reportedly under-staffed, and prosecutors have initiated investigations into biosecurity failures.
Vaccination is a contentious issue. While some farmers advocate for it, EU regulations currently allow emergency vaccination but no certified vaccines exist. Authorities caution that mass vaccination could lead to endemic conditions in Greece and limit export opportunities. There are also reports of up to one million illegal vaccinations carried out during the outbreak.
