Nicosia, Cyprus. Foot and mouth disease has spread to Yeri and Dali in the Nicosia district, an outcome described as “unfortunate” but not unforeseen by veterinary association chairman Demetris Epaminondas. He said the development does not indicate that measures are failing.
Assessment of spread
Epaminondas said the spread to Yeri and Dali was “within the possible scenarios” and added that it does not mean the measures are not working or that the disease did not previously exist in that specific area. He said the authorities are now attempting to determine where else the disease has spread and that it is likely more cases will be found in other areas.
Epidemiological investigation
Asked whether there may have been cases in Yeri and Dali before this week, Epaminondas said this is something the epidemiological investigation conducted by the veterinary services will show.
Vaccination plan and progress
Epaminondas said his association is committed to the plan it received from the veterinary services department regarding vaccinations. He said the vaccination procedure is advancing and that first doses are being completed, with the goal of finishing by the end of March. He added that around 80 per cent of cattle and 45 per cent of sheep and goats have been vaccinated so far, with the aim of vaccinating all units to obtain a good level of immunity.
Recent cases
Two cases of the disease were detected in the Nicosia district on Monday, with all previous cases having been recorded in the Larnaca district.
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