Nicosia, Feb. 23 (SANA) Cypriot authorities have imposed a strict nationwide quarantine, halting the movement of livestock and animal feed, after veterinary services confirmed outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in several areas.
Two clusters of the disease were detected in the neighboring districts of Oroklini and Livadia, with laboratory tests confirming that two large sheep and goat farms in Oroklini are at the center of the outbreak. Authorities immediately activated containment protocols to prevent further spread.
As part of the measures, all livestock at the affected farm in Livadia—around 300 animals—will be culled, with carcasses buried or incinerated at designated sites once preparations are complete. Officials said any additional positive cases within the three-kilometer protection zone would trigger the culling of all animals at the affected facility.
Veterinary services have also placed farms under strict quarantine, closed access roads with police checkpoints, and are monitoring all potential transmission routes, including the movement of animal feed.
Authorities stressed that there is no risk to consumers. Pasteurized milk, cheese, and other animal products remain safe for consumption.
Foot-and-mouth disease is a highly contagious viral infection that affects cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, sheep, and goats, as well as some wildlife. While it does not infect humans, it can cause fever and blisters in animals and lead to significant economic losses in the livestock and dairy sectors.
