Sheep and Goat Plague Found in Croatia for the First Time

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Sheep and Goat Plague Found in Croatia for the First Time

The animal disease called Peste des Petits Ruminants has been confirmed in sheep in southern Croatia, and strict control measures are now in place.

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Martina Osmak

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First Case Confirmed

Croatia has confirmed its first-ever case of Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), also known as sheep and goat plague.

The disease was found in sheep on a farm in Bogdanovići, a village in the Prgomet municipality, Split-Dalmatia County.

The infection was confirmed by the Croatian Veterinary Institute after laboratory testing.

What Is Being Done Now

Veterinary authorities reacted immediately. The farm is under official control, and strict rules are being applied to stop the disease from spreading.

Measures include:

  • Killing all sheep and goats on the infected farm

  • Cleaning and disinfecting the area

  • Collecting information to find out how the virus entered the farm

  • Checking other farms that may have been in contact

Early findings suggest the virus may have entered through illegal animal movements.

Farmers who followed all animal health rules will be able to receive compensation for animals and products destroyed as part of these measures.

Restricted Zones Around the Farm

After the investigation is complete, authorities will set up control zones:

  • Protection zone: at least 3 km around the farm

  • Surveillance zone: at least 10 km around the farm


In these areas, there will be limits on:

  • Moving sheep and goats

  • Transporting animal products

  • Farm activities and animal trade

If the disease spreads, these zones may become larger.

Situation in Europe

In 2025, PPR has already been reported in several nearby countries, including:

  • Hungary

  • Albania

  • Kosovo

  • Romania

  • Turkey

This shows the disease is active in the region and requires strong prevention efforts.

About the Disease

Peste des Petits Ruminants is a serious viral disease that affects:

  • Sheep

  • Goats

Important facts:

  • It does NOT infect humans

  • It does not affect other animal species

  • It spreads very fast among animals

Because of its danger, it is classified as a Category A disease, meaning urgent action is required.

How the Virus Spreads

The virus spreads mainly through:

  • Direct contact between animals

  • Air (coughing, sneezing)

  • Body fluids like saliva, nasal discharge, feces, and tears


It can also spread indirectly through:

  • Equipment

  • Bedding

  • Water containers

  • Contaminated pastures

An infected animal can spread the virus for more than two months.

Signs of Illness in Animals

Sheep and goats with PPR may show:

  • High fever (40–41°C)

  • Weakness and tiredness

  • Loss of appetite

  • Eye and nose discharge that becomes thick and crusty

  • Breathing problems and coughing

  • Diarrhea in some cases

Only laboratory tests can confirm the disease.

What Farmers Must Do

Farmers who keep sheep and goats must:

  • Follow all biosecurity rules

  • Respect animal movement regulations

  • Watch animals closely for signs of illness

  • Report immediately to a veterinarian if they see:

    • Any illness

    • Sudden death

    • Abortions

Early reporting is very important to stop the disease.

More Information

Official guidance and prevention measures are available on the website of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and the Veterinary and Food Safety Authority.

Authorities ask all farmers to stay alert and cooperate fully to protect animal health in Croatia.

Source: https://vijesti.hrt.hr/hrvatska/kuga-malih-prezivaca-prvi-put-potvrdena-u-hrvatskoj-12473795