Food and Veterinary Agency rejects inflated figures on sheep and goat deaths
Agency says official tally lists 196 dead and over 7,300 animals culled; outbreaks detected in 63 locations across four regions.
The Food and Veterinary Agency (FVA) has pushed back against what it calls misleading and generalized figures circulating about recent deaths among sheep and goats linked to the disease locally referred to as "sipanici."
According to the agency’s official register, 196 animals have died from the illness so far; more than 7,300 animals have been euthanized as a containment measure. The FVA says public claims that suggest a substantially higher death toll are inaccurate.
Outbreak map and on-the-ground measures
The disease has been confirmed in 63 separate outbreaks across four regions of the country, with the greatest number of affected sites recorded in the Eastern region. The agency reports that response teams are implementing measures in the field in line with prescribed procedures and biosecurity rules.
The FVA has requested procurement of vaccines, but officials say any decision to use vaccines will depend on expert analyses and the evolving epidemiological situation. Field teams continue to isolate infected herds and carry out mandatory culling where required.
Livestock owners have been urged to report any suspicious cases immediately to limit further spread. Breeders have repeatedly argued that timely vaccination could have reduced mortality in affected flocks.
The agency reiterated its call for calm and cooperation with veterinary teams while monitoring and control actions continue.
Photo: press material from the event
