Greek authorities have confirmed a case of sheep pox in the Kozani region of northern Greece, triggering immediate containment measures. Veterinary services ordered the culling of 200 animals at the affected farm in the village of Ptelea, following laboratory confirmation of the virus.

“For biosecurity reasons, the slaughter and burial of the animals will take place on-site,” said Theofilos Kantzoglou, Head of Veterinary Services for Western Macedonia.

A five-kilometer exclusion zone has been established around the farm, with strict restrictions to prevent the virus from spreading. Animal movement has been banned across the entire regional unit of Kozani until further notice. Farmers have been instructed to keep all livestock within their holdings.

Sheep pox, a contagious viral disease, can have severe consequences for livestock farming if not swiftly contained. Authorities emphasized that the measures, while strict, are necessary to protect animal health and safeguard the wider agricultural economy.