Veterinary services report two additional foot-and-mouth disease cases

On April 6, 2026, the Cyprus Veterinary Services confirmed two additional cases of foot-and-mouth disease in the Dromolaxia-Meneou area, bringing the total number of infected units to 54 in the Larnaca and Nicosia districts. The new cases involved small groups of 3 to 5 and approximately 20 sheep and goats, all located within previously designated infected zones. Senior veterinary official Sotiria Georgiadou stated that epidemiological investigations based on statistical sampling have been completed nationwide, with all samples from provinces outside the restricted areas testing negative. Vaccination efforts are ongoing, with 60% of cattle and 27% of sheep and goats having received the second dose, while pig vaccination within infected zones has reached 73%. Officials aim to complete the second round of vaccinations by the end of April. Over 30,000 animals have been culled to date to contain the outbreak. Affected farmers owning 50 or more animals have already received €215,460 in advance compensation payments. Authorities have assured the public that there is no risk to consumers regarding meat and milk products, and intensified inspections are underway for the Easter period.