Foot-and-mouth disease has emerged in occupied Cyprus, prompting heightened vigilance in the free areas and concerns over potential cross-border transmission of the virus.
- Foot-and-mouth disease has emerged in occupied Cyprus, prompting heightened vigilance in the free areas and concerns over potential cross-border transmission of the virus.
This highly infectious zoonotic disease does not directly threaten humans but poses a severe risk to livestock farming and the economy. The viral infection primarily affects cloven-hoofed animals, including cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs, as well as wild ungulates such as deer and buffalo.
The virus spreads rapidly through direct contact between animals, airborne transmission, and contaminated vehicles or equipment. Even the clothing and footwear of individuals moving between farms can contribute to its spread.
Infected animals typically display high fever and develop painful blisters in the mouth, on the tongue, and on their hooves, resulting in lameness and feeding difficulties. For young animals, foot-and-mouth disease can be fatal, while milk production in affected livestock drops significantly.
Currently, there is no specific treatment for the disease; management revolves around prevention, isolation of infected animals, and strict biosecurity measures. Vaccination may also be employed in certain situations.
While foot-and-mouth disease does not pose a serious threat to human health, with transmission being extremely rare and symptoms usually mild, humans can inadvertently facilitate its spread by transferring the virus from infected to clean areas.
The recent confirmation of cases in occupied Cyprus has led to a state of heightened alert in the Republic of Cyprus. Authorities have implemented extensive measures, including quarantines and mass vaccinations of animals in affected areas, while European monitoring mechanisms have been activated.
In the free areas, the Republic’s Veterinary Services have significantly strengthened preventative measures. These include rigorous checks along the Green Line, vehicle disinfections at crossing points, and increased surveillance of livestock units to curb any potential transmission of the virus.
The goal of these efforts is to prevent any outbreaks in the free areas, as such developments could have dire consequences for domestic production and exports of animal products. Currently, the situation remains under control, with no cases reported in the free areas. However, authorities emphasise that the risk has not completely dissipated.
This ongoing situation calls for continuous vigilance and strict adherence to biosecurity measures from all, including livestock farmers and citizens. Foot-and-mouth disease highlights the importance of preventive actions, particularly on an island with significant movement across borders and a delicate geographical balance.
