Veterinary authorities defend culling measures amid livestock protests

Cyprus veterinary authorities and the Pancyprian Veterinary Association have defended the culling of livestock following the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease, which has been monitored since December. On Wednesday, farmers protested against culling operations in Aradippou, which officials identified as a livestock trader's facility rather than a commercial farm. Veterinarians emphasized that mass culling is a mandatory requirement under strict European Union legislation and the World Organisation for Animal Health standards when a case is confirmed. The President of the Veterinary Association, Dimitris Epameinondas, stated that officials are compelled by law to cull all animals in a unit if any individual animal tests positive, shows symptoms, or has an epidemiological link to an outbreak. The Association expressed concern over the public targeting of veterinarians, noting that they are performing a difficult professional duty. Authorities warn that any obstruction to these protocols significantly increases the risk of further disease spread, threatening the local livestock industry. The government continues to coordinate response efforts with European Union bodies to manage the health crisis.