In a written answer to a parliamentary question from Nikos Pappas (The Left), the European Commission has recommended that Greece consider using vaccination as part of an integrated strategy to contain sheep and goat pox (SPGP), while continuing to enforce movement restrictions and other control measures. The Commission noted that a recent European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) scientific report confirmed that, if properly implemented, vaccination is suitable and effective under conditions such as those currently observed in Greece. The answer, given by Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi on behalf of the Commission, also clarified the regulatory pathway for using non-authorised vaccines in emergency situations.
The question, submitted on 27 January 2026, raised concerns about mass culling of sheep and goats in Greece without the use of vaccination, and reports of illegal vaccination by livestock farmers. The Commission acknowledged that no SPGP vaccines are currently authorised within the EU under the Regulation on Veterinary Medicinal Products (Regulation (EU) 2019/6), but stressed that competent authorities in Member States may, in specific circumstances, allow the use of non-authorised vaccines. Applicants may apply for a marketing authorisation under exceptional circumstances, with assessment timelines generally shorter than for standard applications.
The Commission's answer signals a policy orientation favouring a more integrated disease management approach that includes vaccination alongside traditional culling and movement restrictions. This could impact several stakeholders: Greek livestock farmers, who face economic losses from mass culling and may benefit from vaccination as an alternative; the Greek authorities, who must balance EU law enforcement with practical disease control; EU vaccine banks and pharmaceutical companies, which could see increased demand for SPGP vaccines; and EU consumers, who may face higher meat prices if supply is disrupted. The Commission's recommendation to consider vaccination may reduce the need for widespread culling, potentially lowering economic costs for farmers, but could also raise concerns about vaccine safety and efficacy among some stakeholders.
No concrete proposals, numerical targets, or deadlines were provided in the answer. The Commission stated it continues to work with Greece to ensure effective enforcement of control measures. Future policy direction may involve further guidance on vaccination strategies and possibly expedited authorisation procedures for SPGP vaccines. Institutional follow-up could include additional EFSA assessments or Commission recommendations to other Member States facing similar outbreaks.