Dromolaxia, Cyprus. Municipal services are available to livestock farmers in the Dromolaxia–Meneou area following a February 27 meeting on concerns over foot-and-mouth disease. Mayor Andreas Andronikou said a municipal employee has been assigned to assist farmers around the clock.
Meeting and municipal support
Speaking to CNA on Monday, Andronikou said the meeting aimed to brief farmers on measures to prevent the spread of foot-and-mouth disease in the Dromolaxia–Meneou area and to respond to their concerns.
Disinfection units and access restrictions
Andronikou said portable disinfection units have been installed at all entrances and exits of livestock areas in Tersefanou, Softades–Kiti and Dromolaxia.
He added that all other access points to livestock units have been blocked, with entry permitted only to authorised farmers.
Vigilance and reporting
Farmers were urged to remain vigilant and report any unauthorised access to livestock areas via dirt roads or fields to the municipality or the police, as such actions increase the risk of disease transmission.
Guidelines and biosecurity requirements
The mayor reminded farmers of ten guidelines issued in mid-February following confirmed cases of foot-and-mouth disease.
The guidelines include keeping livestock away from wild and unregistered animals, implementing pest control measures and ensuring proper disinfection at facility entrances.
He said strict biosecurity measures must be applied to all persons and vehicles entering or leaving livestock areas to minimise the risk of transmission.
Farmers are also required to keep visitor records and submit them to the veterinary services when requested.
Have you been asked to follow any new access or disinfection procedures for livestock areas in your community?