Crete extends livestock protection measures against sheep and goat contagion

The Crete Region has extended preventive measures to protect the island's livestock from sheep and goat contagion. These measures, effective from September 4 until September 17, 2026, aim to safeguard the local animal population following increased cases in mainland Greece.

While Crete remains free of the disease, the high transmissibility of the virus and its ability to survive in the environment for up to six months have necessitated strict biosecurity protocols. Key restrictions include a ban on importing sheep and goats from mainland Greece to Crete. Within the island, movements for slaughter are permitted throughout Crete, but movements for breeding are strictly limited to the same Regional Unit.

Additional protocols require all animal movements to be accompanied by health certificates and conducted in certified, disinfected vehicles. Animals must also undergo a 21-day quarantine period at their destination, which must be cleaned and disinfected prior to arrival. Veterinarians have been urged to maintain high vigilance to ensure early detection of suspicious cases.