Foot-and-mouth disease culling completed in Cyprus

Culling operations for livestock infected with foot-and-mouth disease have been officially completed across Cyprus, following the identification of 49 infected units. The epidemic, which has primarily affected the Larnaca district since February 19, 2026, resulted in the loss of approximately 30,000 animals, including 28,516 sheep and goats and 1,910 cattle. Authorities confirmed that the final culling operation occurred at an illegal cattle unit in Livadia. While no new cases have been reported in the last 24 hours, farmers face severe challenges due to movement restrictions and muddy conditions caused by heavy rainfall. Vaccination efforts continue, with the first dose reaching 98% of cattle and 76% of sheep and goat populations, while second-dose administration is ongoing. A minor incident occurred on March 28 in Livadia, where owners of an illegal facility initially resisted the culling of approximately 50 additional animals. The Ministry of Agriculture has initiated compensation payments for affected farmers to mitigate income loss. Strict inspection and monitoring protocols remain in place to prevent a resurgence of the virus.