Spain’s agricultural sector is facing renewed pressure from the ongoing spread of epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD), a viral illness affecting cattle, prompting a new legislative push for a comprehensive response. A proposal presented to the Spanish Congress of Deputies by the Vox parliamentary group calls for a “shock plan” to bolster veterinary services, provide economic relief to affected farmers and improve the overall insurance system for agricultural risks. The initiative specifically targets the region of Castilla y León, which has been particularly hard hit by the disease, but aims for a national strategy to contain the outbreak and mitigate its economic consequences.
EHD, first detected in Spain in November 2022, poses a significant threat to livestock, potentially causing death and debilitating long-term health issues in surviving animals. Symptoms include fever, hemorrhaging, and in female cattle, infertility and severe mastitis, leading to reduced milk production. The disease is transmitted by biting midges and can spread rapidly, making early detection and swift action crucial. The proposed plan emphasizes strengthening epidemiological surveillance and diagnostic capabilities to control the disease’s expansion. This includes increased funding for veterinary services and a national campaign to educate farmers about prevention, symptom recognition, and appropriate response protocols.
The urgency of the situation is underscored by reports of delays in the distribution of previously approved financial aid to affected farmers. According to the proposal, over 600 livestock farmers filed appeals after not receiving promised assistance, with only 483 ultimately receiving a supplementary payment from a fund of €836,750. This has fueled criticism from agricultural organizations, who argue that the current support mechanisms are inadequate and bureaucratic. The Vox proposal seeks to address these issues by streamlining the application process and ensuring the immediate disbursement of committed funds.
Economic Impact and Calls for Insurance Reform
Beyond the immediate health concerns, the EHD outbreak is creating significant economic hardship for farmers. In November 2023, the government of Castilla y León approved direct aid totaling €5.739.500, offering up to €1,000 per farm and €500 for each animal lost. Yet, the proposal alleges that these funds were not distributed following a change in the regional government, leaving farmers in a state of “legal limbo.” This perceived lack of support has intensified calls for a more robust and reliable system of financial assistance.
A key component of the Vox proposal is a comprehensive review of the agricultural insurance system. Currently, EHD is not covered under standard agricultural insurance policies, leaving farmers to bear the full financial burden of the disease. The proposal urges the government to include EHD in the scope of insured risks and to increase subsidies for insurance premiums. Data from 2024 shows that the budget allocated to subsidize insurance contracts increased by almost 8%, rising from €12.6 million in 2023 to €13.6 million, which increased the insurance coverage rate by 3% annually. However, agricultural entities maintain that Castilla y León remains among the four Spanish regions with the lowest levels of insurance subsidies.
Addressing Systemic Weaknesses and Seeking a Vaccine
The proposal likewise highlights the necessitate for improved communication and collaboration between government agencies, veterinary colleges, agricultural organizations, and cooperatives. Establishing a direct and ongoing dialogue, the proposal argues, will ensure a more coordinated and effective response to the EHD outbreak. This includes sharing information, gathering feedback from stakeholders, and incorporating their expertise into decision-making processes.
the initiative calls on the Spanish government to actively pursue the development and deployment of a vaccine against EHD. While a vaccine is not currently available in Spain, research is underway in other countries. The proposal emphasizes the importance of accelerating these efforts and securing access to a vaccine as soon as possible. The European Commission has been monitoring the situation and providing guidance to member states, but a coordinated European approach to vaccine development is still lacking. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) provides ongoing updates and risk assessments related to EHD.
The proposal also addresses the impact of extreme weather events on the agricultural sector. It notes that severe storms in early 2026 damaged 7,600 hectares of land in Castilla y León, making it the second-most affected region in Spain. This underscores the need for a more resilient agricultural system that can withstand the challenges posed by climate change and natural disasters.
Looking Ahead
The proposed “shock plan” is currently under consideration by the Commission of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food in the Spanish Congress of Deputies. The next step will be a debate and potential vote on the proposal, which could lead to the implementation of new policies and funding allocations. The outcome of this debate will be critical for the future of the Spanish livestock industry and the livelihoods of farmers affected by EHD. The government is expected to provide an update on its response to the outbreak in the coming weeks, outlining its plans for vaccination, financial assistance, and disease control.
This situation highlights the vulnerability of agricultural systems to emerging diseases and the importance of proactive measures to protect livestock and ensure food security. If you are a farmer or livestock owner concerned about EHD, please consult with your local veterinarian and refer to official resources from the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food for the latest information and guidance.
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