First Case of Sheep Pox Confirmed in Romania

On June 17, 2025, Romania confirmed its first-ever case of Sheep Pox (POX virus) on national territory. The outbreak was detected in Teleorman County, marking a significant development in the country’s animal health landscape.

The Institute for Diagnosis and Animal Health (IDSA) confirmed the presence of the virus in five samples collected by official veterinarians from the Teleorman County Veterinary and Food Safety Directorate (DSVSA) during routine monitoring activities. The samples originated from two farms in the locality of Dobrotești, housing a combined total of 702 sheep and 31 goats.

Immediately following confirmation, the Local Center for Disease Control (CLCB) was convened by the Prefect’s Office of Teleorman County. A comprehensive action plan was approved, outlining urgent containment measures and institutional responsibilities.

In accordance with national veterinary legislation, authorities mandated the immediate culling of the entire population of sheep and goats at the affected farms. Carcasses are being disposed of through burial at a site approved by the National Environmental Guard and the Water Management System of Teleorman County.

Control measures have been implemented, including the establishment of a 3 km protection zone and a 10 km surveillance zone around the outbreak. Restrictions on the movement of people, animals, and vehicles have been enforced. All commercial sheep and goat holdings in Teleorman County have been notified and inspected to ensure strict biosecurity compliance.

Neighboring counties—Olt, Giurgiu, Dâmbovița, and Argeș—have been alerted through their respective veterinary directorates.

Mixed teams of official and authorized private veterinarians are currently conducting epidemiological investigations and on-site containment operations to limit and neutralize the outbreak.

The case has been officially reported to both the European Commission and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), in accordance with international disease notification obligations.

What Is Sheep Pox?

Sheep Pox is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects sheep and goats. It is caused by a virus from the Poxviridae family and is capable of causing severe outbreaks with significant economic losses.

Key clinical signs in affected animals may include:

1. Skin Lesions – The most distinctive symptom. Red spots evolve into papules, then fluid-filled vesicles, followed by pustules and crusts. Lesions often appear:
2. Around the head (muzzle, nose, ears, eyelids)
3. On the abdomen, limbs, genitals, and axillae
4. High Fever – Typically 40–42°C within 1–3 days of infection
5. Loss of Appetite – Leading to rapid weight loss
6. Lethargy – Generalized depression and lack of energy
7. Nasal and Ocular Discharge – Often excessive; may become purulent in severe cases
8. Swollen Lymph Nodes – Especially submandibular and subcutaneous nodes
9. Lesions on Mucous Membranes – Including oral, nasal, and ocular mucosa, causing feeding or breathing difficulties
10. Disease Duration – Typically 3–4 weeks, though full recovery may take longer; mortality varies with severity and overall herd health

Disease Transmission

Sheep Pox spreads rapidly through direct contact with infected animals and indirect exposure to contaminated materials or environments. The virus is particularly resistant to drying and may persist in the environment for extended periods.

Transmission routes include:

• Nasal, oral, and ocular secretions
• Ruptured skin lesions
• Contaminated feed, bedding, equipment, and vehicles

ANSVSA Response and Public Safety

The National Sanitary Veterinary and Food Safety Authority (ANSVSA) urges all Romanian operators engaged in the trade and handling of small ruminants to strictly follow veterinary guidelines issued by county-level DSVSA offices.

Although Sheep Pox does not pose a risk to human health, any suspected cases must be immediately reported to local veterinary authorities.

ANSVSA will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide regular updates to the public and livestock stakeholders.