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Outbreak of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Causes Alarm in Larnaca

Published February 22, 2026, 12:09
Outbreak of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Causes Alarm in Larnaca

In Larnaca, the Municipality of Aradippou, in collaboration with local livestock farmers, is preparing to address the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease, implementing measures such as the creation of disinfection tanks and temporary road closures. Mayor Christodoulos Partos expressed the need for immediate action, as the government has not responded adequately. Efforts are focused on protecting livestock units in Aradippou, Kellia, and Troulloi, aiming to prevent the spread of the virus. Mr. Partos emphasized the criticality of the situation for livestock farmers and the Cypriot economy, as Aradippou is a significant producer of cow's milk. He also expressed hope that local initiatives will prevent the virus from spreading, while noting that the state could have taken more coordinated action. The Municipality has already mobilized crews to build 7-8 disinfection tanks and plans to restrict access to livestock units to non-essential personnel. The situation is considered difficult, but the Mayor seeks to avoid the worst-case scenario, namely the spread of the virus to the wider livestock zone of the area. In a parallel development, an emergency meeting was held with livestock farmers to increase security measures in their units, aiming to protect livestock and prevent further cases. Cooperation between local government and livestock farmers is considered essential for effectively addressing the crisis.