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Foot-and-Mouth Disease: Completion of Sheep and Goat Vaccinations Expected This Week

Published March 4, 2026, 12:04
Foot-and-Mouth Disease: Completion of Sheep and Goat Vaccinations Expected This Week

Vaccinations of all sheep and goats within zones 3 and 10 km around the infected area are expected to be completed this week, according to the spokesperson of the Veterinary Services, Sotiria Georgiou. The situation regarding the number of animals that have been culled is considered contained, while it is assured that consumers can safely consume animal products. Approximately 135,000 doses of vaccines have already been distributed, with 35,950 for cattle and the rest for sheep and goats. Vaccinations continue in the surveillance zone with an additional 9,800 doses. At the same time, assessments of animals, market value, feed, and milk are ongoing, as well as culling procedures on infected farms. As part of the restrictive measures, the training of hunting dogs in livestock areas is prohibited. The Veterinary Services are informing and providing recommendations to theme parks and gardens with animal collections, while laboratory results so far are negative. The vaccinations are progressing according to schedule, along with epidemiological checks and sampling. There is a possibility of extending vaccinations to the entire country, based on a plan under discussion. No new assistance has been received from the European Union beyond the dispatch of experts and vaccines.