Veterinary inspections intensified ahead of Easter amid foot-and-mouth disease outbreak

Veterinary services have intensified inspections at slaughterhouses, butcher shops, and retail outlets ahead of the Easter holiday to ensure food safety. Senior Veterinary Officer Sotiria Georgiadou confirmed that as of Saturday afternoon, no new cases of foot-and-mouth disease were reported, with the total number of infected units remaining at 52. The most recent case was identified on Friday in a facility with 144 cattle located in Geri. Authorities continue to conduct laboratory testing, contact tracing, and vaccination programs for cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs. Any businesses found in violation of food safety standards will face product seizures and fines. Compensation payments for milk losses resulting from the disease are expected to be issued before Easter. Efforts to track and sample livestock in affected areas remain ongoing.