The veterinary authorities in the Epirus Region of Greece have heightened alertness due to serious suspicions of a potential outbreak of sheep pox at a small livestock unit in the Municipality of Parga. More than 15 sheep exhibited suspicious symptoms, prompting immediate action from the authorities. Blood samples were collected from the animals and have been sent to a laboratory for detailed testing, with official results expected by Monday to confirm whether these are indeed cases of sheep pox, as veterinarians suspect based on their initial inspection.

In the meantime, the livestock unit has been placed under strict quarantine measures, including a ban on the movement of animals to prevent any potential spread of the disease. The local police have been enlisted to ensure compliance with these restrictions and to mitigate the risk of a wider outbreak. The situation has raised concerns among local farmers and livestock owners about the implications for the agricultural community in the area.

Veterinary services are conducting on-site inspections and have undertaken disinfections of the unit and the routes that may have been traversed by the animals. This ongoing situation underscores the importance of vigilance and rapid response in managing animal health issues, reflecting broader public health concerns in the region regarding zoonotic diseases that could affect livestock and agricultural productivity.