Crisis meeting at ZENON Coordination Centre
Authorities held a large-scale meeting today at the “ZENON” Coordination Centre of the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) to address the foot-and-mouth outbreak affecting livestock units in Larnaca district.
Ministers of Agriculture, Justice and Defence attended the meeting, alongside representatives from all competent state services, focusing on operational coordination and strengthening response measures.
Eleven livestock units affected
During the meeting, the Minister of Agriculture and the Veterinary Services provided a detailed briefing on current data and actions already underway.
So far, officials have identified cases in eleven livestock units in Troulloi, Oroklini, Livadia and Aradippou, affecting approximately 14,000 animals, including cattle, pigs and sheep-goats.
Authorities have already begun culling and burying infected animals in line with established protocols. They have also installed disinfection systems in affected areas and imposed strict biosecurity measures.
EU experts expected for technical support
Services are acting under national and European protocols governing contagious animal diseases. EU experts are expected to arrive later today to provide technical support and assist with further management of the situation, including vaccination procedures.
Officials also decided to activate a special national emergency plan. A 24-hour Crisis Management Centre will operate from the ZENON Coordination Centre, bringing together all involved services under the responsibility of the Ministry of Agriculture to ensure unified operational management and continuous coordination.
Broad inter-agency coordination
The coordination team includes the Veterinary Services, Police, Fire Service, National Guard, Civil Defence, Game and Fauna Service, Public Works Department, Health Services for disinfection matters, Water Development Department, Environment Department, Forestry Department, Geological Survey Department, Larnaca District Administration and the Department of Lands and Surveys.
Authorities reminded that since December, when cases emerged in the occupied areas, the Veterinary Services of the Republic of Cyprus had already implemented preventive measures to limit the spread of the disease. Those measures remain in force.
Exports continue despite outbreak
The state has pledged support measures for all affected parties, particularly livestock farmers, as part of broader assistance to the primary sector.
Despite the challenges, exports of Cypriot products continue normally. In particular, no restrictions currently affect milk exports for halloumi, one of Cyprus’ most significant export products.
Authorities have prioritised containing cases within the already affected areas, strictly regulating movements in livestock zones and strengthening surveillance to prevent further spread. Services remain on high operational alert to safeguard livestock production and economic stability.
Also read: Foot-and-mouth disease: Cases in 11 units – 13,000 animals affected
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
