Foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks reach 116 farms in Cyprus

As of May 15, 2026, the number of farms affected by foot-and-mouth disease in Cyprus has risen to 116. The Ministry of Agriculture and Veterinary Services reported four new cases within previously identified zones. According to reports from Philenews, two of the newly identified units were operating without proper licenses. The outbreak has affected a total of 76,216 animals, including 2,985 cows, 24,483 pigs, and 48,748 goats and sheep. While official updates cite 116 units, conflicting local reports from Sigma suggest 115 units, with specific detections in Athienou and Dromolaxia involving approximately 4,000 goats and sheep. Officials continue to perform island-wide sampling to contain the spread. The government, represented by spokesperson Letymbiotis, has emphasized that the goal is to provide compensation to the affected farmers as soon as possible.