Story perspectives

Sheep and Goat Pox Outbreak Threatens Greece's Feta Industry

12/1/2025

Summary

Story summary

The sheep and goat pox outbreak across Greece since August 2024 has led to culling 417,000 animals, 4-5% of the herd.
The outbreak threatens feta production as farmers struggle to source sheep's milk.
The Greek government faces criticism for a delayed response and limited vaccination options; compensation is deemed insufficient.
Farmers urge government to pursue emergency vaccination, as in Bulgaria and Turkey, to control the outbreak and protect livelihoods.

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Story summary

The sheep and goat pox outbreak across Greece since August 2024 has led to culling 417,000 animals, 4-5% of the herd.
The outbreak threatens feta production as farmers struggle to source sheep's milk.
The Greek government faces criticism for a delayed response and limited vaccination options; compensation is deemed insufficient.
Farmers urge government to pursue emergency vaccination, as in Bulgaria and Turkey, to control the outbreak and protect livelihoods.