Greece confirms foot-and-mouth disease outbreak after more than 20 years

The Greek Directorate General of Animal Health confirmed an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease on a cattle farm on the island of Lesbos, detected on March 15, 2026. This is the first case in the country since 2000–2001.

Following confirmation, authorities activated emergency protocols under EU and national regulations. The entire island was declared a restricted zone, with a total ban on the movement of susceptible animals (cattle, pigs and sheep-goats), as well as restrictions on the transport of animal products and feed.

Slaughter activity and the removal of animal-origin food products from the island were also suspended. On the affected farm, all susceptible animals will be culled and products destroyed in line with established control and eradication protocols.