Croatia lifts restriction zones for small ruminant plague

Croatia has officially abolished all restriction zones previously established due to outbreaks of small ruminant plague. The decision, announced by Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries David Vlajčić, follows a favorable epidemiological assessment and a decision by the European Commission.

The lifting of these zones applies to several counties, including Bjelovarsko-bilogorska, Zagrebačka, Virovitičko-podravska, Požeško-slavonska, Sisačko-moslavačka, and Koprivničko-križevačka. This change allows for the movement of sheep and goats within Croatia and to other European Union member states, as well as the public distribution of fresh milk, meat, and products derived from sheep and goats without prior processing.

While the specific zone restrictions have ended, general biosecurity measures remain in effect nationwide. Livestock owners are still required to implement protective measures on farms, ensure timely animal marking, and immediately report any suspected disease, deaths, or miscarriages to authorized veterinarians to maintain food safety and hygiene standards.