Sheep and Goat Pox Outbreak in Greece: Culls, Export Concerns and Vaccination Debate

A persistent outbreak of sheep and goat pox (SGP) is impacting livestock farming in Greece, leading to significant animal culls and raising concerns about the country’s feta cheese exports. As of early March 2026, the situation is evolving, with recent reports indicating a potential decline in modern cases, though the disease continues to pose a threat.

The Outbreak and Culling Measures

Sheep and goat pox, caused by Capripoxviruses, re-emerged in Europe with increased intensity during 2024-2025, particularly affecting Greece and Bulgaria [1]. Since August 2024, more than 481,000 animals have been culled in Greece due to the disease [3]. Current protocols mandate the slaughter of entire herds upon detection of a single case of the pox, a measure designed to prevent further spread and protect exports.

Economic Impact and Feta Cheese Exports

The outbreak threatens Greece’s vital feta cheese exports, valued at approximately €1 billion annually [3]. The culling of livestock directly impacts milk production, a key ingredient in feta cheese. Farmers in affected regions are similarly prohibited from allowing their animals to graze freely.

Vaccination Debate

Livestock breeders are advocating for the government to authorize vaccinations, a recommendation also supported by European Union officials [3]. However, the Greek government has resisted this approach, citing the lack of EU-approved vaccines and concerns that vaccination would lead to the disease being classified as endemic in Greece, potentially harming exports.

Recent Developments and Control Efforts

Recent data suggests a possible slowdown in the spread of the disease. As of March 5, 2026, only 10 new cases were registered in the second half of February, across four regions, compared to 11 new cases in the previous week across seven regions [3]. Government officials are hopeful that the situation can be contained before Orthodox Easter, a period of high lamb slaughter.

Vaccine Research and Scenarios

The effectiveness and safety of commercially available sheep and goat pox vaccines, as well as potential vaccination strategies for epidemic control and eradication, were assessed in a February 2026 report by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) [1] and [2]. This assessment is crucial for informing future policy decisions regarding vaccination programs.

Enforcement and Arrests

Authorities are actively enforcing restrictions on animal movement. In a recent incident, a shepherd in northern Greece was arrested for allegedly allowing his sheep to graze outdoors in a restricted area [3]. Dozens of similar arrests have been made in recent months.