Veterinarians threaten strike following attacks during foot-and-mouth disease sampling

The Pancyprian Veterinary Association has warned of a full strike from foot-and-mouth disease management duties, including sampling, vaccinations, and culling, unless authorities provide police protection for personnel. This decision follows recent incidents of physical violence and obstruction in Limassol, Pakhna, and Larnaca, where individuals reportedly blocked vehicles, seized samples, and harassed staff. Association President Dr. Dimitris Epameinondas stated that the situation has derailed and staff safety is non-negotiable. While the Veterinary Services maintain that testing procedures are safe and independent of vaccination status, some farmers, including a farm owner in Pakhna, have expressed disagreement with culling protocols and requested re-testing. Authorities confirmed that calm has returned to Pakhna following an emergency meeting between farmers and the police. One suspect remains in custody regarding a previous incident in Larnaca. The Veterinary Services have reiterated that tests are accurate and essential for managing the disease outbreak.