Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus’ Veterinary Services said the spread of foot and mouth disease may be partly linked to illegal animal movement between farms in the Nicosia and Larnaca districts. Farmers said they are seeking talks with President Nikos Christodoulides and are preparing mobilisation measures.
Veterinary Services findings and measures
Veterinary Services director Christodoulos Pipis told CyBC on Monday that contact tracing of confirmed cases indicates virus transmission is associated with unauthorised movement of animals between farms in Nicosia and Larnaca.
Pipis said some affected individuals are reacting negatively or raising objections, which is making it harder for authorities to carry out their work effectively.
He said Cyprus is obligated to implement European protocols to tackle foot and mouth disease, including strict measures such as movement restrictions and the culling of affected livestock.
Pipis said he hoped those opposing the measures would understand the seriousness of the situation, warning that otherwise the consequences for the economy and livestock sector could be severe.
Farmers seek meeting and plan mobilisation
With tension rising among farmers, Voice of Livestock Farmers spokesman Christodoulos Christodoulou said the group is seeking a meeting with President Nikos Christodoulides to find solutions and avoid further escalation.
Christodoulou told Alpha TV that if there is no response, farmers are preparing to proceed with mobilisation measures, including calling members on Tuesday for discussions and sending a letter to the police to secure a permit for a protest.
He said the planned mobilisation would be “very dynamic” and added that decisions were taken during a meeting held on Sunday evening.
What steps do you think would help authorities and farmers cooperate more effectively to contain the outbreak?
