A highly contagious goat plague has taken hold in Greece, with new infections emerging over the weekend. In response to the outbreak of Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), authorities have implemented a ban on the movement of all goats and sheep from their farms. This ban also extends to the commercial slaughter of the animals and their movement.
The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Costas Tsiaras, announced these measures to combat the deadly disease, which does not affect humans but poses a significant threat to goats and sheep. PPR has a mortality rate of up to 70% among infected animals.
In affected areas, such as central Greece where the plague was first reported, strict protocols are being followed. When a case is detected, the entire flock is culled, the farm is disinfected, and nearby animals are tested for the disease. These actions align with the guidelines set by the European Union.
The central Thessaly region has been hit the hardest, with approximately 7,000 animals culled in herds where the virus was identified. An additional 1,200 animals are set to be culled in the coming days. Recent cases have also been reported in the central Larissa region and the southern area of Corinth.
To prevent further spread of the disease, security measures are being tightened across the country. The goal is to limit the spread of PPR and ultimately eradicate it. The impact of these measures on the production of milk products, such as Feta cheese, which Greece exports globally, remains uncertain. Key markets for Greek dairy products include Germany, the UK, and Sweden.
Originally detected in Ivory Coast in 1942, PPR has since spread worldwide, causing significant economic losses. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization estimates that the disease results in losses of up to $2.1 billion globally each year.
The severity of the situation in Greece underscores the importance of vigilance and swift action in controlling infectious diseases among livestock. The collaborative efforts of authorities, farmers, and international organizations will be crucial in containing and eradicating the goat plague.
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