site.btaNational Sheep and Goat Breeders’ Association’s Karakolev: Indecision on Vaccination Hurts Farmers

Excessive indecision regarding the vaccination of sheep and goats against small ruminant plague is harming farmers, National Sheep and Goat Breeders’ Association (NOKA) Co-chair Simeon Karakolev told BTA on Sunday.

When asked about livestock farmers’ attitudes toward vaccination, Karakolev identified three groups. The first group includes farmers who lack trust in the State and have already begun vaccinating their animals. The second group consists of those who expect the State to implement measures protecting their herds and livelihoods. The third group comprises farmers influenced by processors, who believe the issue will resolve without vaccination.

Many livestock farmers are already vaccinating their herds, but the minister cannot publicly acknowledge this, Karakolev said. He noted that vaccinations are being administered daily.

He observed that the authorities’ slow response in implementing effective measures to control the outbreak and cull affected animals is further undermining public trust in the State and its institutions. He warned that this could fuel resentment and hostility toward the State, which should be avoided. He believes the Ministry of Agriculture and Food is not supporting farmers, which sends a negative message and makes it even harder to rebuild confidence.

Karakolev argues that there is only a superficial concern for farmers, while the real beneficiaries are a few exporters. He notes that processors will secure raw materials to maintain operations, even if these materials are not sourced from Bulgaria, and their businesses will persist.

Karakolev noted that the Bulgarian Veterinary Union has requested immediate vaccination.

He emphasized that Bulgaria cannot be compared with Greece, despite frequent comparisons, because the southern neighbour has established exports worth EUR 1 billion, which is unthinkable for Bulgaria. According to him, Greece missed the opportunity to halt the spread of the disease long ago. At some point, Greeks will be forced to vaccinate, as they already have about 300,000 culled animals, Karakolev noted.

He noted that state compensation for culled animals only partially covers their value. Farmers receive no compensation for lost working time, foregone income, or the psychological impact of losing their herds, Karakolev said. He believes that two-thirds of livestock owners affected by this will leave the sector. As a result, Bulgaria risks permanently losing part of its livestock population.

Karakolev reported that approximately 2,000 animals were culled in Bulgaria last week, while around 400 to 500 have been culled this week.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Food, the Bulgarian Food Safety Agency, and the National Sheep and Goat Breeders’ Association (NOKA) are conducting a nationwide information campaign targeting livestock farmers. Vaccination options are also being discussed during these meetings, BTA reports.