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Foot and Mouth Disease: Nationwide Vaccinations Underway in Cyprus – Agricultural Bodies Seek EU Oversight in Occupied Territories

Published March 7, 2026, 14:09
Foot and Mouth Disease: Nationwide Vaccinations Underway in Cyprus – Agricultural Bodies Seek EU Oversight in Occupied Territories

A nationwide vaccination campaign is underway in Cyprus to combat foot and mouth disease, with a focus on areas around pig farms and goats and sheep. Vaccinations are being carried out simultaneously across the island, including in the Larnaca region where cases have been identified. The procurement of vaccines for pigs is underway from Germany. So far, no new cases have been reported, but the high concentration of livestock farms in Larnaca increases the likelihood of further outbreaks. The goal is to contain the disease within the region. Meanwhile, agricultural bodies are calling on the European Union for effective oversight of how funds allocated to combat zoonotic diseases in the occupied territories are being utilized. A meeting with the President of the Republic will address the need for a coordination mechanism involving the Veterinary Services of the Republic of Cyprus and the relevant authorities in the occupied territories. Concerns are being raised about the transparency in the use of European funds and the effectiveness of the measures being taken. Organized livestock farmers point out that the EU has been funding programs to eliminate zoonotic diseases in the occupied territories since 2021, but question whether there is sufficient control over the use of funds and the implementation of measures. The meeting with the President of the Republic will take place on Sunday with the participation of representatives from cattle breeders, goat and sheep breeders, pig breeders, cheesemakers, the Pan-Cypriot Veterinary Association, the Veterinary Services of Cyprus, and other agricultural organizations.