Outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease confirmed in Cyprus

Veterinary Services in Cyprus have officially confirmed approximately 3,000 cases of foot-and-mouth disease within livestock units in Avgorou, Dromolaxia, Alethriko, Aradippou, and Pentakomo. Christodoulos Pipis, Director of Veterinary Services, stated that while these incidents were identified during the summer, their official registration was delayed pending clarification from the European Commission. The affected animals are scheduled for culling in the coming days, and owners will be eligible for compensation covering the loss of animals and milk, as well as support for potential future reactivation.

Neofytos Neofytou, President of the 'Voice of Farmers' association, has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the government's management of the crisis. He criticized the lack of substantial progress and transparency, demanding an urgent meeting with relevant authorities to secure written commitments regarding financial aid. Farmers remain concerned about the timeline for compensation and the immediate impact of the impending culling process. A meeting is requested for Monday to address these concerns directly with the affected livestock owners before culling procedures move forward.