Greece Enforces Ban on Sheep and Goat Movement to Combat 'Goat Plague'

Greece has banned the movement of sheep and goats to combat a viral infection known as 'goat plague'. The virus, detected in the Thessaly, Larissa, and Corinth regions, is highly contagious among these animals but not harmful to humans. Efforts include culling infected animals, testing, and disinfection.

Greece has prohibited the movement of sheep and goats from farms in a bid to contain the spread of 'goat plague', after detecting new cases over the weekend, the agriculture ministry announced on Monday. Culling of infected animals and extensive testing are part of the containment measures.

The virus, or Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), poses no threat to humans but remains highly contagious among sheep and goats, resulting in fatality rates of up to 70%. Around 8,000 animals have been culled and over 200,000 tested, predominantly in the central Thessaly region.

More cases were identified in the Larissa and Corinth regions over the weekend. The ministry emphasized the necessity of strict security measures nationwide to prevent further spread and to eradicate the disease. Originating in Ivory Coast in 1942, PPR causes significant economic losses estimated at $2.1 billion globally each year.

Greece hosts Europe’s largest goat population, critical for producing feta cheese, a significant economic contributor. Once detected, infected flocks are culled, farms disinfected, and nearby animals tested. Epidemiological analysis continues to trace 'possibly suspect imports' as a source of the outbreak.