The number of infected livestock units linked to foot and mouth in Cyprus has climbed to 84 after veterinary authorities confirmed five more positive goat and sheep farms.
Officials also confirmed infection at a pig farm in Paliometocho, marking a new development in the outbreak.
Cases spread across Nicosia and Larnaca
Veterinary Services reported new infections in Geri, Dali and Dromolaxia–Meneou. Five units in Geri, one in Dali and three in Dromolaxia–Meneou tested positive.
These cases bring the total to 84 infected units – 21 in Nicosia and 63 in Larnaca – all inside already restricted zones.
First infected pig farm confirmed
The foot and mouth outbreak in Cyprus now includes a pig farm in Paliometocho with around 4,000 pigs.
Authorities have set up a 3km protection zone and a 10km surveillance zone west of Nicosia after the confirmation.
Culling operations continue
Veterinary Services continue sampling, tracing and laboratory testing across affected farms.
Teams have already culled about 1,358 sheep and goats and 190 cattle this week. Officials say culling will continue throughout the week.
Vaccination progresses across farms
Authorities report steady progress in vaccination campaigns.
Cattle vaccination has reached 73.5%, sheep and goats 56.3%, and pig farms in affected areas 84%.
Access delays in Pergamos
Veterinary teams completed the second round of vaccinations in nine units in Pergamos but still need to reach three more.
Officials say coordination between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the United Nations continues to secure safe access for private veterinarians.
Farmers warn of major losses
President of the Pig Farmers Association Petros Kailas warned that close proximity between pig farms could drive rapid spread.
He said losses could reach up to 20,000 animals if the infection spreads across neighbouring units.
Kailas also criticised delays in vaccine distribution and coordination. He said authorities did not respond quickly to urgent requests.
He added that veterinary services bear responsibility for the delays, while investigations and containment efforts continue.
Also read: Turkish provocations in Pyla buffer zone since February
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