Foot-and-mouth disease cases rise in Cyprus as compensation disputes persist

The Ministry of Agriculture in Cyprus has confirmed that the number of livestock units infected with foot-and-mouth disease has risen to 59, following the detection of five additional cases in the Larnaca and Nicosia districts. The new cases were primarily found in Dromolaxia-Meneou and Geri. Vaccination efforts are ongoing, with 64% of cattle, 35% of sheep and goats, and 73% of pig units in infected zones now vaccinated. While the government has begun issuing compensation payments for destroyed milk, the sector faces an internal conflict regarding financial assistance. Veterinary Services Director Christodoulos Pipis and Special Scientific Committee head Stavros Malas are in dispute over whether farmers should receive cash or replacement animals, citing concerns over EU funding and legal regulations. Farmers have demanded immediate cash payments, with organizations writing to President Christodoulidis to push for resolution. Reports also emerged regarding allegations of illegal animal transfers from surveillance zones. Total costs for the crisis are currently estimated at 28 million euros.