Sheep and Goat Pox Outbreak Spreading Rapidly in the TRNC

The Turkish Cypriot Veterinary Medical Association has voiced serious concern over a fast-spreading outbreak of sheep and goat pox in the Değirmenlik and İskele regions of Northern Cyprus.

According to the association, the outbreak was triggered by the uncontrolled movement of animals without official authorization, combined with inadequate biosecurity measures.

The disease presents with severe symptoms, including high fever, skin lesions, lung infections, and can lead to death in small livestock. It spreads easily through direct contact between animals or indirectly via contaminated equipment and transport vehicles.

Farmers are being urged to act immediately to prevent further spread. Facilities where the disease has been detected must strictly follow quarantine and vaccination protocols set by the Veterinary Department.

Animal transport is only allowed with official permission, and thorough disinfection is required at slaughterhouses and in vehicles used to move livestock.

The outbreak was first reported last weekend, prompting authorities to initiate an emergency vaccination campaign. Several small-scale cattle farms in the affected areas have been placed under quarantine as a precaution.

Authorities stress that the disease does not pose a risk to humans. Meat and dairy products remain safe to consume, provided proper hygiene practices are followed.

Still, the Veterinary Association is calling on all livestock owners and stakeholders to strictly adhere to official guidelines. The association has also appealed to the Council of Ministers and the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources for urgent financial and logistical support to contain and manage the outbreak.