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Foot and Mouth Disease: Infected Area at a Standstill – SMS to Livestock Farmers and Veterinary Services Appeal

Published February 27, 2026, 12:15
Foot and Mouth Disease: Infected Area at a Standstill – SMS to Livestock Farmers and Veterinary Services Appeal

The spokesperson of the Veterinary Services, Sotiria Georgiadou, announced that no new cases of foot and mouth disease have been identified in the infected area following new sampling controls. Vaccinations of cows across the three-kilometer radius have been completed, while vaccinations within the ten-kilometer radius are ongoing and vaccines for pigs have been ordered. Agricultural organizations and livestock groups were informed by EU experts about the vaccination program and protective measures, who expressed satisfaction. Ms. Georgiadou stated that the vaccination plan will be reassessed in two weeks, while a large dose of vaccines from the European Commission is expected to arrive. An appeal was made to halt the movement of animals, feed, and people, especially within the three and ten-kilometer zones, unless a special permit from the Veterinary Services is obtained, emphasizing that the area is in a "standstill" state. SMS messages have been sent to livestock farmers with instructions. Animal culling continues, and a team has been established to identify suitable burial sites. The situation remains under close monitoring, and all necessary measures are being taken to limit the spread of the disease and protect animal production.