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Foot-and-Mouth Disease Measures Intensify in Cyprus

Published February 23, 2026, 09:09
Foot-and-Mouth Disease Measures Intensify in Cyprus

Measures to combat foot-and-mouth disease have been intensified in Cyprus in livestock units in the areas of Aradippou, Athienou, Livadia and Dromolaxia – Meneou, following outbreaks in holdings in Livadia and Oroklini. The Mayor of Aradippou, Christodoulos Partou, stated that two of the seven disinfection tanks in Aradippou have been completed, while farmers are preparing to place medicines for the disinfection of vehicles entering the livestock areas. In some cases, roads have been closed to facilitate access for farmers, while spraying of cars is being carried out by the state in areas where tanks cannot be placed. Farmers have already carried out spraying on their holdings and have placed mats soaked in special medicine for additional safety. The Mayor of Athienou, Kyriakos Kareklas, visited the livestock area with the President of the Athienou Cattle Breeders Association to inspect the situation after the implementation of preventive measures at the 30 livestock holdings in the Municipality. Sponges soaked in medicine have been placed for vehicle disinfection, while 14 of the 20 roads leading to the livestock units have been closed. In addition, six disinfection tanks will be created for the disinfection of vehicle tires. Until the construction of the tanks, spraying of car tires will be carried out at ten entry and exit points of the livestock units. The authorities emphasize the importance of farmers adhering to biosecurity measures, while also investigating the possibility of concealment and late notification by farmers and veterinarians regarding the appearance of the virus. Early detection and immediate response are crucial to limit the spread of foot-and-mouth disease. The disease only affects cloven-hoofed animals (cattle, sheep, goats, pigs) and is not transmitted to humans or through food consumption. The Veterinary Services are in full coordination with the European Commission and other relevant departments to effectively address the situation.