On 25 March 2025, the European Commission published an implementing act concerning emergency measures to address outbreaks of sheep pox and goat pox in Greece.
Six new outbreaks have been notified in the regional units of Thessaloniki, Aetolia-Acarnania, and Phocis, as well as on the island of Samothrace in the regional unit of Evros.
Given the emergence of these new outbreaks over the past two weeks, and in addition to the establishment of protection and surveillance zones in the affected areas, the European Commission has extended the ban on the movement of sheep and goats from Greece to destinations outside the country until 31 May 2025. This measure aims to prevent the spread of the disease to the rest of the EU and third countries while avoiding any unjustified trade restrictions that third countries might impose.
Moreover, the Commission has extended the application period of the latest measures until 15 December 2025.
Greece has taken the necessary measures to combat the disease, including the establishment of protection and surveillance zones around the affected areas.