Slaughterhouses in Thessaly are temporarily closing as the region takes urgent measures to contain the spread of a disease affecting sheep and goats.
Following a rash of confirmed cases, Regional Governor Dimitris Kouretas issued a decision prohibiting the slaughter of sheep and goats in regional slaughterhouses until Friday, July 26.
In addition to the slaughterhouse closures, the movement of sheep and goats within Thessaly is also being forbidden until health inspector complete an ongoing disease investigation.
The import of sheep and goats from Romania is also banned during this period.
All sheep fattening farms in Thessaly will be placed under isolation for a minimum of 21 days while the investigation continues. As an added precaution, the movement of cattle to and from the Trikala and Larissa areas is also restricted until the investigation is complete.
To address potential risks associated with raw milk from the affected area, specific processing methods have now become mandatory.
Authorities say milk must undergo either Ultra-High Temperature treatment at a minimum of 132°C for at least 1 second, or High-Temperature Short-Time pasteurization at a minimum of 72°C for at least 15 seconds, depending on the milk's pH level.
The comprehensive measures aim to effectively contain the disease and safeguard livestock health in Thessaly.
The situation is being closely monitored, and further decisions will be made based on the findings of the ongoing investigation.