New foot-and-mouth disease cases detected on Cyprus farms: Number of affected holdings rises to 116

The Veterinary Services of Cyprus have reported four new cases of foot-and-mouth disease detected in livestock farms in the Dromoloxia and Athienou areas. The disease was found among small ruminants, bringing the total number of affected holdings on the island to 116.

According to official data, two cases were registered in Dromoloxia and Athienou, one of which concerns an unlicensed farm with seven animals. Another two cases were confirmed in Athienou. In total, the three licensed holdings where the infection was detected house 2,758 heads of small ruminants.

The Veterinary Services emphasized that the new cases were recorded in areas already previously affected, which allows control measures to continue within the framework of existing restrictions.

In parallel, large-scale vaccination of animals continues. According to the department, the administration of the first vaccine dose to all animals included in the immunization program is scheduled to be completed by May 20.

To date, the vaccination campaign has covered:

• 92% of dairy farms,
• 77% of small ruminant farms nationwide,
• 48.5% of pig farms in the restriction zones.

In addition, specialists continue epidemiological monitoring and sampling to assess the spread of the disease.

The authorities urge farmers to strictly comply with veterinary instructions and biosecurity measures to prevent further spread of the infection.