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Minister of Agriculture Rejects Negligence Claims Regarding Foot-and-Mouth Disease - Says on Vaccination

Published February 25, 2026, 12:12
Minister of Agriculture Rejects Negligence Claims Regarding Foot-and-Mouth Disease - Says on Vaccination

The Minister of Agriculture, Maria Panagiotou, after a meeting with livestock farmers, producers and cheesemakers regarding foot-and-mouth disease, stated that the Government is dealing with the situation seriously and with a plan, with the primary goal of limiting the virus and effectively supporting those affected. She stressed that no one will be left alone and no sector will be exposed. The priority is to support those affected and to start vaccinations, while the implementation of the framework of measures is progressing and the channel of communication is open to address issues. Strict adherence to biosecurity measures and the cooperation of all are crucial. All efforts are being made to avoid affecting the export of halloumi. The Minister rejected accusations of state negligence, stating that those involved were informed from the first moment and monitoring followed on the green line. Also, checks were carried out on animals that had not been infected until January. Regarding the lack of preventive vaccinations, the Minister replied that no country in the European Union follows this practice, while vaccination is carried out when cases begin to increase.