Cyprus veterinary authorities update foot-and-mouth disease vaccination and control measures

The Cyprus Veterinary Services have provided clarifications regarding European Commission Executive Decision (EU) 2026/782 concerning the management of foot-and-mouth disease. Authorities state that while the current vaccination program is protective, long-term disease-free status requires the eventual removal of vaccinated animals from production to lift trade restrictions. The vaccination campaign is ongoing, with 98.5% of cattle and 80% of sheep and goats having received the first dose, and significant progress made on the second dose. Eleven livestock units in Pergamos, previously under suspension, have resumed operations following administrative compliance checks conducted by the Republic of Cyprus. Officials emphasized that there is currently no policy of mass culling, though the slaughter of vaccinated animals is a future requirement for regaining international disease-free trade status. Further efforts are focused on surveillance, biosecurity, and movement restrictions to prevent viral spread. All recent laboratory tests across the island have returned negative results for new infections.