Mr. Stratakos informed that the samples from the area south of Heraklion were positive, and immediately contacted the Regional Governor of Crete to discuss the next steps. The main action to be taken is the creation of protection zones and the implementation of all the measures provided by the European regulation for the eradication of diseases.
“Our experience from previous cases of zoonotic diseases in Greece shows that the implementation of specific measures has borne fruit”, said Mr. Stratakos, underlining the importance of cooperation with livestock farmers for immediate information and effective management of the disease.
Mr. Stratakos called on the breeders to inform the veterinary services of the Region of Crete immediately, if they notice any symptoms in their herd. “It is not only a battle against the virus, but also against time,” he said, stressing the need for immediate action and cooperation.
The Regional Governor of Crete, Stavros Arnautakis, stated that there was immediate information and cooperation with the ministry from the first moment the problem appeared on the island. The services of the Region of Crete, under the guidance of the ministry, are fighting a daily battle to deal with the disease.
“Proper and quick management is critical for the plague of small ruminants,” Mr. Arnautakis stressed, adding that the Region will faithfully follow the protocol set by the Greek and European regulations to save Crete’s livestock.
Mr. Arnautakis also contacted the Prime Minister, who expressed his anxiety and stressed the need to proceed according to the directions given. “We must follow the example of Thessaly and not take a single step back,” said the Regional Governor of Crete.
The meeting was also attended by the deputy regional governors of the island’s regional units, officials of the veterinary departments, representatives of the Greek Veterinary Association, and livestock breeders, showing the determination of all involved bodies for the immediate and effective treatment of the disease.
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