Foot-and-mouth disease cases 8in Cyprus have increased further, with authorities confirming seven new infected livestock units and warning that the outbreak could soon exceed 100 farms across the country.
The new cases involve two goat and sheep units and one cattle unit in Dromolaxia-Meneou, three goat and sheep units in Geri, and one goat and sheep unit in Athienou.
With these developments, the total number of positive units has reached 92.
Most infected farms remain within the already established outbreak zones in Larnaca and Nicosia. However, authorities also confirmed a new outbreak at a pig farm in Palaiometocho, outside the previously affected areas.
Officials described the case as particularly concerning due to its location outside known infection zones.
Investigation into new pig farm outbreak
Veterinary Services said the pig farm has a capacity of around 4,000 animals and lies near other livestock units.
Authorities have already begun containment procedures, including identifying land for burial, opening trenches, and preparing for culling operations.
Officials also informed the police to set up roadblocks and disinfection points in the area.
Authorities warn of possible three-digit outbreak
Foot-and-mouth disease cases may exceed 100 infected units, Sotiria Georgiadou said, adding that the situation shows a “mathematical certainty” of further spread.
She stressed, however, that most infected units remain small and urged against panic.
Georgiadou said the outbreak does not reflect a failure of veterinary services, but rather highlights the role of human behaviour in disease transmission.
She pointed to movement of people, equipment, clothing, and vehicles as key risk factors and stressed the importance of strict biosecurity and stand-still measures.
Mass culling and vaccination efforts
Authorities have so far culled around 33,000 to 34,000 animals, including sheep, goats, and cattle. This figure does not yet include pigs from the Palaiometocho farm or animals from newly infected units.
Vaccination campaigns continue, with second-dose coverage reaching 73.5% in cattle, 56.3% in sheep and goats, and 84% in affected pig farms in the initial outbreak zones.
Compensation and EU monitoring
Officials confirmed that compensation processes for affected farmers are underway, with dedicated committees assessing maximum payout levels for different livestock categories.
The European Commission plans to reassess the situation in May. Authorities said it remains unclear whether the new pig farm outbreak will affect Cyprus’ standing, noting that the country already faces restrictions.
Also read: Foot-and-mouth case confirmed at pig farm in Nicosia
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