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Vaccinated Animals Will Not Be Culled - Evidence Gathering for Virus Spread

Published February 25, 2026, 17:13
Vaccinated Animals Will Not Be Culled - Evidence Gathering for Virus Spread

The Ministry of Agriculture announced the immediate start of cattle vaccination procedures against foot-and-mouth disease, aiming to protect animals and prevent the spread of the disease. Cattle farmers have already been informed of the necessary procedures. It is noted that vaccinated animals will not be culled, but only the 260 animals that have already been diagnosed positive. 10,000 doses of vaccine have already been delivered from the occupied territories, with the remaining 10,000 doses expected to be delivered soon. The vaccine delivery took place within the framework of dealing with cases of the disease in the free areas. Technical cooperation between the two communities continues to protect animal health. At the same time, investigations by the Larnaca TAE investigation team continue regarding the spread of the virus, with evidence gathering from farmers and private veterinarians. The investigations focus on the origin of the virus and its possible spread in the free areas. The investigations also examine the supply of animal feed to livestock farms, as well as laboratory tests conducted on cases. The investigative team is collaborating with various services to fully investigate the case and identify those responsible.