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EU Support for Foot-and-Mouth Disease Control: Vaccinations Proceed and Exports Secured

Published February 27, 2026, 07:18
EU Support for Foot-and-Mouth Disease Control: Vaccinations Proceed and Exports Secured

The European Commission's Chief Veterinary Officer, Olivér Várhelyi, received a detailed briefing on the measures being taken to combat foot-and-mouth disease in Cyprus. The Minister of Agriculture and the Director of Veterinary Services presented the measures being taken to limit the disease and protect livestock production. Vaccinations of cattle within the 3-kilometer zone have already been completed, while vaccinations are progressing in the 10-kilometer zone. 23,500 doses of vaccine have been distributed to private veterinarians, and procedures are underway to procure vaccines for pigs. All laboratory test results so far are negative and have been confirmed by the EU Reference Laboratory. Mr. Várhelyi expressed his satisfaction with the management of the situation and assured the EU's support, both with the provision of vaccines and with measures to ensure the export of animal products. A meeting of EU experts with cattle and sheep/goat farmers has been scheduled to provide information on the vaccination program and biosecurity measures.