Preventive Measures Introduced Against Sheep and Goat Plague in Animals in Pazardzhik Region

Under the chairmanship of Deputy Governor Dragomir Ribarov, an extraordinary meeting of the Regional Epizootic Commission was held. The meeting was convened following an order from the Executive Director of BABH, after outbreaks of sheep and goat plague and sheep and goat pox were confirmed in Greece and Cyprus among small ruminants.

As of now, there are no registered cases of sheep and goat pox, sheep and goat plague, or animal plague on the territory of Pazardzhik Region. The purpose of the adopted measures is preventive protection and prevention of the disease from entering the region.

Attending the meeting were the Director of ODBH Pazardzhik Dr. Kostadin Kostadinov and representatives of ODMVR, Regional Directorate "Agriculture", RDDPD, RIOSV, RDG, and RZI.

The main measures that come into force immediately are:

• Ban on trade and movement: Transport of small ruminants and small cloven-hoofed animals is suspended in all municipalities of the region. An exception is made only for animals intended for immediate slaughter in slaughterhouses within Pazardzhik Region, following mandatory clinical examination and permission from an official veterinarian.
• Ban on markets and exhibitions: The organization of markets and exhibitions of live animals is suspended.
• Mandatory disinfection: All vehicles must undergo disinfection before loading and after unloading animals.
• Commitments of local authorities: Municipal mayors shall convene municipal epizootic commissions and inventory burial sites for animals (in case of an outbreak) and facilities for temporary holding of captured animals.

The Regional Epizootic Commission called on farm owners and private livestock keepers to strictly adhere to biosecurity measures.

Source: marica.bg