Buzău authorities sacrifice 600 animals following sheep pox outbreak

Veterinary authorities in Buzău County, Romania, have begun the mandatory sacrifice of over 600 sheep and goats at a non-professional farm in Luciu following a confirmed outbreak of sheep and goat pox. The operation commenced on Friday morning after the disease was confirmed on September 3. An epidemiological investigation is underway, with authorities suspecting that the uncontrolled movement of animals in the area may have facilitated the spread of the virus.

This marks the second outbreak of sheep and goat pox in Buzău in 2026, following a previous incident in Padina in June that resulted in the sacrifice of approximately 1,800 animals. To manage the risk, authorities are monitoring the affected area and have taken samples from a nearby flock of over 300 sheep to determine if the virus has spread.

The farm owner, Marian Constanda, expressed significant distress over the loss, noting that his family has raised livestock for three generations. He stated that he had requested quarantine measures to attempt to save the animals, but authorities proceeded with the full cull. A commission including representatives from the DSVSA, the local town hall, and the Agricultural Directorate will be formed to establish compensation for the owner.