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Increased Measures at Checkpoints Due to Foot-and-Mouth Disease

Published February 27, 2026, 17:08
Increased Measures at Checkpoints Due to Foot-and-Mouth Disease

The "Minister of Agriculture and Natural Resources" of Northern Cyprus, Hussein Tsavous, announced increased disinfection and control measures at the checkpoints due to the ongoing foot-and-mouth disease crisis. Mr. Tsavous claims that cases have been detected in the free areas and that the disease may have spread throughout the island. He also stated that animal smuggling from the free areas was detected in December 2025, with the virus found in the animals, and accused the free areas of concealing the disease for a year, prioritizing the economic losses of halloumi producers. Mr. Tsavous mentioned that the second dose of vaccination for cattle has been completed and 150,000 doses have been administered to sheep and goats, emphasizing that protecting production is a priority. He also warned Turkish Cypriots to be cautious when purchasing meat from the free areas due to the risk of virus transmission through animal bones. The "Minister" advocated for a joint approach to tackling the disease, stating that a common struggle is required. He estimated that as temperatures rise in the coming months, the disease will subside. The announcement comes at a time of increased concern about the spread of foot-and-mouth disease and its potential impact on livestock farming and the economy of Cyprus.