North Macedonia sheep breeders demand urgent vaccination amid pox outbreak

The Union of Sheep Breeders in North Macedonia has appealed to the government for urgent action following a sheep pox outbreak that has reportedly killed between 7,000 and 10,000 sheep and destroyed 40 to 50 flocks. Breeders are demanding immediate vaccination and higher compensation for lost livestock, noting that current rates are insufficient.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Economy, in coordination with the Food and Veterinary Agency (FVA), stated they are monitoring the epidemiological situation. Turkey has donated 500,000 vaccine doses, which are expected to arrive shortly, and a request for additional supplies has been submitted to the European Commission.

Authorities warned that any unauthorized private vaccination by farmers will result in sanctions and the loss of rights to compensation. The FVA emphasized that all vaccines must undergo safety and purity testing before being administered under official supervision to ensure effective disease control.