Foot-and-mouth disease containment and agricultural reform in Cyprus

Stavros Malas, head of the Special Scientific Committee for the reconstruction of the livestock sector, announced on Monday that the current livestock model in Cyprus is unsustainable. During a meeting of the epidemiological team, it was reported that out of 490 inspected units, 101 have tested positive for foot-and-mouth disease, representing an infection rate of 20-22%. The spread of the virus in Western Nicosia is attributed to improper livestock transport practices and inadequate disinfection. The epidemiological team is currently evaluating various scenarios to tighten containment measures. Regarding the replenishment of livestock, the Committee ruled out imports, focusing instead on supporting local breeds from the domestic market. Malas noted that the poor organization of livestock zones exacerbated the current outbreak. Future measures are being discussed to address the structural issues of the sector.