22 September 2025: Outbreak of sheep pox and goat pox in Serbia
Updated 22 September 2025
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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/official-veterinary-surgeon-ovs-notes/22-september-2025-outbreak-of-sheep-pox-and-goat-pox-in-serbia
OVS note number: 2025/63
Date: 22 September 2025
Purpose
To inform you that, following a recent outbreak of sheep pox and goat pox (SPGP) in Serbia, imports of fresh and chilled (untreated) hides and skins of sheep and goats should be held.
Background
Serbia notified WOAH on 19 September 2025 of two outbreaks of SPGP, which were confirmed in the Raška District on 18 September 2025 in two backyard sheep flocks.
The UK Office for SPS Trade Assurance is drafting a safeguard declaration to prohibit the import of fresh and chilled (untreated) hides and skins of sheep and goats. A separate OVS note will be issued when this has taken place.
In the meantime, any consignments from Serbia of fresh and chilled (untreated) hides and skins of sheep and goats should be held.
We are also considering what, if any, action needs to be taken in relation to imports of hay and straw from Serbia. We will provide an update as soon as possible, but in the meantime, consignments of hay and straw from Serbia should also be held.
Contact point for enquiries
Email: imports@apha.gov.uk
Imports and EU Trade Team