Nicosia, Cyprus. Authorities have identified a new case of foot-and-mouth disease in a sheep and goat unit within the infected zone in Geri, officials said on Monday. The agriculture ministry said 725 animals have been infected so far across 45 affected units.
Investigation of animal movements
Senior veterinary officer Sotiria Georgiadou said all reports concerning the movement of animals are being investigated.
Culling operations and infection figures
Georgiadou confirmed that culling operations continued on Monday in Livadia. To date, approximately 22,600 sheep and goats and 1,500 cattle have been put down as part of efforts to contain the outbreak.
Vaccination and booster programme
Georgiadou said vaccination coverage has reached 98 per cent of the cattle population and 72 per cent of sheep and goats. She added that the administration of booster doses began last week and is progressing in line with the initial vaccination programme.
EU expert support and findings
Georgiadou expressed appreciation for support provided by EU experts who visited Cyprus in December and February, offering on-site scientific, technical and operational guidance on measures to combat and eradicate the disease.
She said that during the February visit, the experts confirmed that the Veterinary Services are implementing all required procedures for managing cases, with all measures stipulated by legislation already in place.
External pressure cited by officials
Georgiadou said the experts observed that Veterinary Services are facing significant external pressure from groups of farmers, political groups and others, which she said negatively impacts their work and contributes to the spread of the virus.
Compliance with recommendations
Despite these challenges and what Georgiadou described as a tense environment, she said both the Veterinary Services and the agriculture ministry have fully complied with the experts’ recommendations and implemented all expected actions outlined in their report.
What impact will the ongoing vaccination and culling measures have on controlling the outbreak in your area?
