Dialogos

Cyprus on Red Alert Due to Foot-and-Mouth Disease

Published February 22, 2026, 14:01
Cyprus on Red Alert Due to Foot-and-Mouth Disease

Cyprus is on high alert due to the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease. Representatives of cattle, goat, and sheep farmers, as well as agricultural organizations, emphasize the need to prevent the spread of the virus and are calling for support for affected farmers. The importance of strict implementation of biosecurity protocols is highlighted. Goat and sheep farmers are awaiting updated measures from the Veterinary Services for all farms across Cyprus to limit further transmission of the virus. Livestock units have been implementing existing measures since December 27th, but are awaiting new guidelines to strengthen protection. The need for stricter control and implementation of measures is emphasized, as has been done in other European countries where the disease was limited to a small radius. The total destruction of animals and the impact on halloumi cheese are the main concerns. Farmers stress that the responsibility for implementing the measures lies with the Veterinary Services and the Police, regarding the control of human and vehicle movements. The Pan-Cypriot Cattle Breeders Organization (POAA) is calling for compensation for units affected by foot-and-mouth disease and emphasizes the importance of cooperation with the Veterinary Services. The POAA has informed producers about the disease and distributed material for recognizing the symptoms. The use of vaccines is not considered necessary at this time, as the situation is limited.