64 outbreaks of sheep orf confirmed in North Macedonia; about 10,000 animals dead

Authorities in North Macedonia have confirmed 64 separate outbreaks of orf among sheep, and roughly 10,000 animals have died, Agriculture Minister Borche Serafimovski said today. Officials are monitoring the situation daily and have begun steps to contain further spread.

Regional spread, main transmission risks

At a press briefing in the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Economy, Serafimovski gave a regional breakdown: 50 outbreaks in the Eastern region, seven in the Northeastern region, six in Vardar and one in the Skopje region. He urged flock owners to follow veterinary guidance closely and to report any suspicious cases without delay.

Serafimovski warned that one of the main transmission risks identified during epidemiological monitoring is the use of shears that have not been properly disinfected prior to shearing. He asked farmers to stop sharing equipment unless it has been disinfected first.

The minister said authorities are already working to secure vaccine supplies through the European Commission, the Republic of Turkey and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

"Providing vaccines will not automatically mean the start of vaccination. The decision will be based on a professional assessment of the epidemiological situation, the risk and the possible veterinary-health and economic consequences of vaccination," Serafimovski said.

He added that farmers whose flocks are affected will receive compensation. Assessments and preparations to allocate funds are under way, and the compensation model has been established by the Food and Veterinary Agency. The ministry and the Food and Veterinary Agency remain in constant contact, and Serafimovski repeated his call for strict compliance with all prescribed measures.

Photo: press material from the event