Sheep pox in Sredets - rapid actions of BFSA limit the spread

Immediately after the confirmation of the primary outbreak of smallpox in a herd of 183 sheep and goats on a farm in the village of Debelт, Sredets municipality, Burgas region on June 17, 2025, the Bulgarian Food Safety Agency (BFSA) took urgent actions to limit the spread of the disease.

Within hours, a 3-kilometer protection zone was established around the farm, and in the 10-kilometer surveillance zone, including Sredets and the nearby settlements, enhanced control and monitoring measures were introduced. All infected and contact animals were humanely culled and disposed of according to European and national standards, and the owners will receive compensation in accordance with the Veterinary Medicine Act.

BFSA calls for immediate notification in case of suspected smallpox, as early diagnosis and response are key to limiting the spread of the infection. The agency emphasizes that the swift and decisive measures taken are essential for containing the outbreak and preventing further spread of the disease among small ruminants in the region.