Nicosia, Cyprus. All samples examined so far in connection with the recent foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in Cyprus have returned negative, according to a member of the government’s epidemiological team. Authorities are awaiting results from a final batch of samples collected in the Limassol district.
Surveillance results
Speaking to CNA on Monday, Cyprus Veterinary Association president and epidemiological team member Dr Demetris Epaminondas said 121 livestock units remain classified as infected. He said all surveillance and tracing samples taken so far in Limassol and Nicosia had been negative.
The remaining test results are expected on Tuesday. If they are also negative, surveillance and tracing efforts within a three-kilometre radius of affected farms will be completed.
Culling and vaccination
Epaminondas said culling operations linked to the outbreak were completed on Friday and that there are no outstanding cases requiring action.
He said vaccination efforts are continuing after additional vaccine doses were received. Inoculations are set to begin in livestock units in Paphos and Limassol that had not yet been covered because of earlier vaccine shortages.
According to Epaminondas, the aim is to achieve full nationwide vaccination coverage.
Controls remain in place
Authorities are maintaining heightened controls along the demarcation line. Police patrols have already been deployed in areas along the buffer zone, while existing measures at crossing points remain in place.
Epaminondas told CNA that additional measures are under discussion between the authorities, police and the National Guard.
Despite the negative test results so far, officials said it is too early to discuss lifting restrictions.