Bluetongue virus outbreaks confirmed in sheep in Larnaca and Paphos

Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus Veterinary Services confirmed outbreaks of bluetongue virus serotype 4 in sheep holdings in the Larnaca and Paphos districts between October and November 2025.

The authorities said measures have been taken to prevent the virus from spreading to other holdings and stressed that the disease does not pose a risk to humans or consumers.

Recorded outbreaks

According to data submitted to the World Organisation for Animal Health on August 20, 2026, one outbreak was detected in Steni, Paphos district, on October 8, 2025. It involved five cases among 137 susceptible sheep.

A second outbreak was recorded in Aradippou on November 21, 2025, involving one case among 20 susceptible sheep.

The outbreaks mark the reappearance in Cyprus of bluetongue virus serotype 4, a strain previously eradicated in the country.

Transmission and consumer safety

Bluetongue is a viral disease affecting ruminants, including sheep, goats and cattle, with sheep experiencing the most severe clinical symptoms.

The virus is not transmitted directly through contact between animals. It spreads exclusively through blood-feeding midges and mosquitoes of the Culicoides genus.

Veterinary Services said the disease is not transmitted to humans and that there is no risk to consumers from milk, meat or their derivatives.

Symptoms and prevention

Farmers have been urged to inspect their flocks daily for symptoms, including fever of up to 42°C, severe lethargy, swelling around the mouth, eyes and ears, nasal discharge, excessive drooling, mouth inflammation and sores, and lameness caused by hoof inflammation.

Blue discolouration of the tongue may occur but is rarely observed.

The Veterinary Services recommended approved insect repellents for animals, regular treatment of stables with suitable insecticides, limiting grazing during the late afternoon when mosquito activity peaks, and controlling animal movements.