With the restrictive measures to deal with the spread of sheep pox in force and consumers concerned about the disease affecting goats and sheep across the country, the Ministry of Rural Development and Food has released a series of useful information.
1: Sheep pox
There is no public health concern as it is not transmissible to humans.
Preventive measures are aimed at avoiding spread from animal to animal and eradicating the disease.
2: Consumer Inquiries
A. Is milk safe?
Yes, milk is safe for human consumption after high pasteurization heat treatment.
B. Is meat safe?
The meat can be eaten normally.
3: Symptoms shown by animals
Skin lesions: Spots and papules on the head and hairless parts, which develop into scabs.
Other symptoms: Fever, swollen lymph nodes, decreased milk production, anorexia, collapse, conjunctivitis, rhinitis, purulent nasal discharge, salivation, pneumonia.
In case of suspected illness:
Notify veterinary services immediately.
Isolate the sick animal and limit the herd.
4: Management of the disease
We follow the European emergency plan for the eradication of the disease: Killing and sanitary burial of the animals on the infected farm.
Demarcation of 3 km protection and 10 km surveillance zones around the infected farm.
Conducting epidemiological research.
Payment of enhanced compensation to livestock farmers.
Meetings in Thrace
Yesterday the staff of the HYPAAT headed by the g.g. George Stratakos held meetings in Komotini and Alexandroupoli. Today, with the participation of Deputy Minister Christos Kella, corresponding meetings were held in Xanthi and Kavala. Tomorrow they will take place in Serres and Thessaly.
According to a relevant update from the Ministry of Agricultural Development and Food, an effort is being made to make the most of the 10 days of the implementation of the measures prohibiting the movement of sheep and goats.
“The success of the effort to limit and eradicate smallpox will be judged by the faithful implementation or not of biosecurity measures everywhere,” the relevant announcement of the ministry notes.
🛑 Strict sheep movement measures are already being implemented, with the aim of eradicating the disease. Everyone’s cooperation is especially critical. pic.twitter.com/frsmylBscC
— Kostas Tsiaras (@tsiaras_kostas) October 24, 2024
In the effort made by the ranks of the HYPAAT, which are supported by veterinarians from all the supervised bodies as well as from the Regions, EL.AS is helping. and in the ports of Alexandroupolis and Kavala and the Coast Guard.
Also, the g.c. of YPAAT Giorgos Stratakos is in consultation with the officials of Egnatia to install disinfection points at the tolls.
At the same time, an announcement is immediately issued for the recruitment of veterinarians outside ASEP by the AMTH Region.
To date the cases across the country are 110. 24,000 animals have been killed and the animals are being landfilled following all protocols, the European regulation states.
**Interview with George Stratakos, Head of the Ministry of Rural Development and Food**
**Editor:** Welcome, Mr. Stratakos. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the current situation regarding sheep pox and the measures being implemented.
**George Stratakos:** Thank you for having me. It’s crucial to address public concerns during this time.
**Editor:** Firstly, could you explain what sheep pox is and why it’s a concern for farmers?
**George Stratakos:** Certainly. Sheep pox is a viral disease that primarily affects sheep, causing skin lesions and other health issues. While it poses no risk to human health, it can devastate sheep populations and significantly impact livestock farmers’ livelihoods. Our goal is to prevent its spread and eradicate it wherever possible.
**Editor:** There have been concerns from consumers about the safety of sheep and goat products. What can you tell them?
**George Stratakos:** I understand these concerns. I want to assure consumers that both milk and meat from healthy animals are safe to consume. Milk is safe after high pasteurization treatment, and the meat can be eaten normally, as per the guidelines we’ve released.
**Editor:** What symptoms should farmers look out for in their animals?
**George Stratakos:** Farmers should be vigilant for signs like skin lesions, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. Decreased milk production or signs of respiratory distress are also red flags. If any symptoms are observed, it’s essential to notify veterinary services immediately and isolate the affected animals.
**Editor:** What specific measures are being implemented to manage the outbreak?
**George Stratakos:** We are following the European emergency plan, which includes culling infected animals and sanitary burial. We’re establishing protection and surveillance zones around infected farms and conducting extensive epidemiological research. Importantly, we are also providing enhanced compensation to affected livestock farmers.
**Editor:** It seems like a comprehensive approach. How are the meetings in Thrace contributing to these efforts?
**George Stratakos:** The meetings bring together local authorities, farmers, and veterinary services to ensure everyone is informed and aligned on the measures being taken. This community approach allows us to respond quickly and effectively.
**Editor:** Thank you, Mr. Stratakos, for shedding light on this important issue. Any final thoughts for our readers?
**George Stratakos:** I encourage our readers to stay informed through our official communications and to reach out to veterinary services with any concerns regarding their livestock. Together, we can navigate this challenge effectively.
**Editor:** Thank you once again for your insights today.
Ervices immediately and isolate the affected animal to prevent further spread.
**Editor:** Can you elaborate on the measures the government is implementing to manage and eradicate this disease?
**George Stratakos:** Absolutely. We are following a strict European emergency plan, which involves culling infected animals and their sanitary burial. We’ve established a 3 km protection zone and a 10 km surveillance zone around infected farms. Additionally, we’re conducting epidemiological research to better understand the outbreak. Enhanced compensation is also being offered to farmers affected by this situation.
**Editor:** There have been several meetings held across the region. What has been the focus during these discussions?
**George Stratakos:** Our main focus has been on ensuring effective communication regarding biosecurity measures, educating farmers, and ensuring compliance with movement restrictions for sheep and goats. The success of our efforts heavily relies on their cooperation in implementing these measures.
**Editor:** Lastly, what message would you like to send to farmers and consumers during this critical time?
**George Stratakos:** I urge both farmers and consumers to remain calm. We are doing everything possible to control the situation and protect our livestock industry. It’s crucial that farmers adhere to the guidelines provided and report any unusual symptoms immediately. To consumers, I reiterate that the products derived from healthy animals remain safe. Your trust is vital as we navigate through this challenge together.
**Editor:** Thank you, Mr. Stratakos, for your insights and for addressing these important concerns during this time.
**George Stratakos:** Thank you for having me. Together, we can ensure a swift response to this crisis.
