5 December 2025 – The WOAH Regional Representation for Europe and the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC) co-organized a regional online seminar dedicated to WOAH standards and recommendations for sheep pox and goat pox (SGP), as well as modern methods for their control and prevention.
The event gathered veterinary authorities from the five EAEU member countries, alongside WOAH experts and national specialists from across Europe. More than 100 participants joined to review the latest epidemiological developments and share practical experience in managing these priority transboundary diseases.
The webinar was opened with remarks from Dr V. Subbotin (EEC) and Dr B. Plavšić (WOAH Europe), who highlighted the long-standing cooperation under the WOAH–EEC Memorandum and the importance of harmonized regional approaches to disease control.
The programme featured key presentations on the global situation and effective strategies:
Dr Tsviatko Alexandrov stressed the ongoing spread of SGP in several world regions and the resurgence of cases in parts of Europe, noting that biosecurity, early detection, and rapid response remain the most effective tools to contain outbreaks.
Dr Vasili Basiladze provided an overview of WOAH perspectives on the sheep pox and goat pox standards. He encouraged countries to comment on the proposed revision of Chapter 14.9 of the Terrestrial Code, which introduces clearer case definitions, surveillance requirements, and updated guidance for safe trade.
EAEU member countries shared their current SGP status and control measures. Greece detailed its management of a large 2024–2025 epidemic through emergency legislation and strict movement bans. Serbia shared its successful rapid containment of outbreaks in 2025 through stamping-out and extensive surveillance. Georgia highlighted its national monitoring system and targeted prevention strategies.
Roman Kostyuk presented unified approaches to automation of laboratory monitoring in the EAEU, showcasing technological solutions to strengthen early warning and data management.
The WOAH Standards Department shared updates on planned revisions for the 2026 edition of the Terrestrial Code and Manual, including improvements to diagnostic methods and surveillance provisions.
The seminar reinforced that sheep pox and goat pox remain significant threats requiring coordinated, science-based regional action. The discussions confirmed that robust biosecurity, early detection systems, and rapid response capabilities are fundamental to preventing spread. Strong veterinary services, supported by reliable laboratory networks and transparent reporting, are central to any successful control effort.
The ongoing revision of WOAH standards will further provide Members with clearer guidance for surveillance, prevention, control, and safe trade. Ultimately, this event underscored that continued regional cooperation through WOAH, the EEC, and national veterinary authorities is essential for protecting animal health and rural livelihoods.
