Bluetongue virus cases confirmed in Cyprus livestock

Cyprus Veterinary Services have confirmed outbreaks of the Bluetongue virus (BTV-4) in livestock farms across the Nicosia and Limassol districts. While initial reports from local media provided varying figures, the Director of Veterinary Services, Christodoulos Pipis, confirmed as of October 8, 2026, that 46 animals have been infected and 10 have died across three affected farms. Other reports from early October had estimated up to 52 infections across five farms; this discrepancy is attributed to ongoing updates in the epidemiological tracking process.

The virus is transmitted by Culicoides midges and is seasonal, thriving in humid conditions. Officials emphasize that the disease is not transmissible to humans, nor does it pose a risk to human health through dairy or meat products. Unlike Foot-and-Mouth disease, which is classified as Category A, Bluetongue is managed differently, with vaccination, insect repellents, and the use of insect screens identified as the primary preventative measures. Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation, but they acknowledge that controlling the movement of midges makes it difficult to entirely prevent further spread.