Palaiometocho, Cyprus. Culling has begun at the first pig unit confirmed to be infected with foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in the Palaiometocho area, according to Veterinary Services spokeswoman Sotiria Georgiadou.
Measures at affected pig unit
Georgiadou said the affected pig unit has a capacity of 4,000 animals and raised concerns because initial estimates had suggested any infected pig farms would likely be found within already affected areas rather than in a more remote location. She said authorities have taken necessary measures and are acting swiftly to contain the virus by culling the animals.
Livestock losses and supply outlook
Responding to questions about livestock sufficiency for milk production, Georgiadou said 2.6 per cent of cattle and 6.6 per cent of sheep and goats have been culled so far. She said milk and meat reserves and overall livestock levels remain manageable for now.
Risk of spread among pigs
Georgiadou said the aim is to contain the spread of the virus in pig farming, adding that culling at the affected unit has already begun to prevent the virus from spreading beyond the area. She said pigs release larger quantities of the virus and spread it more intensely, making it crucial to confine the outbreak strictly to the specific unit.
Compliance with restrictions
Asked about the effectiveness of the response, Georgiadou said restrictive measures must be followed meticulously and very strictly, noting there have been cases of non-compliance that contributed to the spread detected so far. She added that in the two main livestock areas in Nicosia and Larnaca where the virus had spread, containment efforts had been relatively effective for a considerable period.
Expected detection zones
Georgiadou said it had been expected that infected herds would be identified within zones of three and 10 kilometres in the affected areas.
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