A plague outbreak affecting goats and sheep in Thessaly, a key agricultural region in Greece, has prompted the governor to call for a state of emergency.
While the disease poses no threat to human health, it has significant economic implications for the region.
Nine cases have been confirmed so far, leading to the culling of over 2,400 animals. The outbreak is the first of its kind in Greece, and efforts are underway to contain it.
The disease, known as the 'plague of small ruminants' (PPR), is highly contagious among livestock but does not affect humans. It has a high mortality rate and can severely impact regions where small ruminants are crucial for livelihoods.
The government is mobilising resources to manage the outbreak, including deploying veterinarians for inspections and guidance.
The region, already grappling with the aftermath of devastating floods last autumn, now faces another challenge in protecting its agricultural sector.