Authorities in Cyprus have taken decisive action to contain a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak, placing 23 farms under strict quarantine and initiating the culling of 260 cattle starting tomorrow. This outbreak, confirmed at a farm in Livadia, Larnaca, has prompted a swift response from various governmental bodies.
Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com
Foot-and-mouth: Emergency Measures Activated
The measures were solidified during an emergency meeting involving all relevant authorities earlier today. The Veterinary Services confirmed that both European and national protocols have been fully activated to respond to this crisis.
Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com
Containment Zone Established
The affected farms are located within a 3km protection zone surrounding the farm where the outbreak was detected. In this zone, the movement of animals and animal products is temporarily restricted to prevent the further spread of the disease. Authorities plan to conduct daily sampling and inspections to monitor the situation closely.
Support from Veterinary Services
In a bid to enhance their efforts, staff leave has been cancelled, and additional veterinarians are being reassigned from other districts to Larnaca. This increase in manpower aims to strengthen tracing and on-site checks to ensure that the outbreak is contained effectively.
Consumer Reassurance
Officials have sought to reassure the public regarding food safety. They emphasised that foot-and-mouth disease poses no threat to human health, and therefore, dairy products such as milk and halloumi remain safe for consumption. The Veterinary Services highlighted that strict controls and the pasteurisation process ensure the safety of these products.
Next Steps in Containment Efforts
As the culling begins, authorities will monitor the situation closely and are prepared to implement further measures if necessary. The focus remains on protecting both livestock and public health as they navigate this outbreak.
