New suspected foot and mouth disease cases reported in Cyprus amid vaccination delays

Authorities in Cyprus are investigating two potential new cases of foot and mouth disease (FMD) in Pentakomo, Limassol, and Avgorou, Famagusta. While Philenews reported these as confirmed cases bringing the total to 123, other sources including Cyprus Mail and statements from the Veterinary Services describe them as units under investigation pending final laboratory results. The last confirmed outbreak occurred on June 10, following the initial detection on February 20, 2026. To date, mass culling has affected 56,632 sheep and goats, 24,483 pigs, and 3,018 cattle, with €19.4 million approved in compensation for farmers.

Efforts to eradicate the epidemic face significant challenges due to low vaccination participation in the Paphos district, where coverage remains at 50% for small ruminants and 60% for cattle. This resistance hinders the nationwide epidemiological surveillance program, which requires a 30-day waiting period after the second vaccination dose. While the national vaccination completion rate has reached 87% for cattle, 67% for sheep and goats, and 41% for pigs, the Paphos standoff continues to delay the safe reactivation of livestock sectors across the country.