Cyprus confirms cases of West Nile virus in horses and bluetongue disease in livestock

Cypriot veterinary authorities have confirmed the first 2026 cases of West Nile virus (WNV) and a serious outbreak of bluetongue disease (BTV-4) in the country. Regarding WNV, sources differ on the scope: while most report one confirmed case on a farm of 16 horses in Paralimni, the state broadcaster RIK reports that five horses tested positive. The infection, which originated on September 9, was officially notified to the World Organisation for Animal Health on September 18. Officials stress that horses are dead-end hosts and the virus does not transmit from horse to horse or to humans. Mosquito control measures are being implemented in the area.

Separately, a bluetongue outbreak involving serotype 4 was identified at a farm in Pera Orinis, Nicosia district, starting September 7. Among a population of 624 sheep and goats, 39 infections and 10 deaths were recorded. This marks the third outbreak of bluetongue in Cyprus in less than a year, following previous occurrences in Paphos and Larnaca in late 2025. Veterinary services have initiated control protocols for biting midges, the primary vector for the disease. Authorities confirm that bluetongue does not affect humans and livestock products remain safe for consumption.