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Veterinary Services Respond to Obstruction of Sampling Incidents – Foot-and-Mouth Cases Remain Stable

Published March 18, 2026, 17:51
Veterinary Services Respond to Obstruction of Sampling Incidents – Foot-and-Mouth Cases Remain Stable

The Veterinary Services announced that the number of foot-and-mouth disease cases remains at 42, while sampling, tracing, and laboratory tests continue. Culling has taken place in three areas: Livadia, Dromolaxia, and Geri. Vaccination of cattle has reached 85+% of the livestock population island-wide, while in sheep and goats the percentage is 49.3%. The Advisory Committee, established on the initiative of the Minister of Agriculture, met to provide scientific guidance. Timelines and plans were discussed to better manage the situation and prevent further spread of the virus. Incidents of obstruction of sampling by farmers were reported, who cite legislation regarding vaccination. The Veterinary Services clarified that epidemiological investigation is necessary in infected areas to determine the extent of the problem. The tests being carried out detect only antibodies resulting from natural infection and not from vaccination, dispelling fears of misinterpretation of the results. Investigations continue to identify the source of the infection and prevent further spread.