Foot-and-mouth disease spreads in Greece, affecting production on Lesbos Island

An outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease on the island of Lesbos in Greece is already affecting at least 22 farms since mid-March, with a direct impact on livestock production, particularly dairy. Cases are concentrated in the northeast of the island, within a radius of about four kilometers.

The outbreaks mainly involve sheep and goats, with a smaller presence in cattle. Authorities have ordered the sanitary culling of all animals on affected farms, in line with international protocols.

Restrictions on the movement of livestock products have begun to affect the flow of milk and derivatives, putting pressure on prices and complicating commercialization, even for producers without confirmed cases.

The impact also extends to the sheep supply chain, with plant closures and logistical constraints. At the same time, producers are demanding compensation, while concerns grow over the regional spread of the disease.