Cyprus Enacts Emergency Measures Amid Foot-and-Mouth Disease Concerns
Authorities in Larnaca District are responding urgently to the rapid spread of foot-and-mouth disease in Cyprus. An emergency meeting was convened on Tuesday with experts from the European Commission to discuss the epidemiological situation within a 10 km surveillance zone.
Immediate Actions Taken Against Foot-and-Mouth Disease
As a result of the meeting, authorities have decided to initiate a vaccination campaign. This effort will be coordinated with private veterinarians familiar with local farms and farmers. The first vaccinations will target the most affected areas, known as “red zones.”
- Vaccination will be based on collected data from each farm.
- Infections may lead to culling of animals to curb further spread.
Impact on Farmers and Livestock Exports
The Cypriot government has stressed the importance of farmer cooperation and adherence to protective measures. This is crucial to prevent severe economic and health impacts on a sector that significantly contributes to the local economy. In light of the outbreak, all exports of live animals have been halted.
Farmers are facing increasing despair as they see their herds infected, resulting in dwindling income. In response to the crisis, around 20,000 vaccines are anticipated to arrive in Cyprus from the affected regions, while an additional 500,000 doses are set to be supplied by the European Commission.
Continuing Containment Measures
Disinfection efforts and containment measures are ongoing. Authorities are urging universal compliance with these guidelines to effectively manage the outbreak. The situation remains critical, and the full cooperation of all local stakeholders is essential.
