Nicosia: Management and evolution of the FMD crisis in Cyprus is at a ''turning point'' a few days before Orthodox Easter, the Cyprus Veterinary Association and Sheep and Goat Farmers' Association told the Cyprus News Agency as the crisis has affected more than 40 units on the island.
According to Cyprus News Agency, authorities announced that the culling of infected animals is completed and vaccination is nearing the end. The second phase has already begun in the district of Larnaka, where the disease was first detected. Authorities are also urging livestock farmers to be extra vigilant when moving their animals to the slaughterhouse in view of Easter. Increased measures will be in place, authorities said.
Livestock farmers informed the Cyprus News Agency that animal feed is a major problem they now face due to the reduction of feed stocks, as the ban on movement and grazing has led to an increase in feed consumption. In statements to CNA, Head of Veterinary Association, Demetris Epaminondas, noted that the management of the disease is now at the second phase of vaccination in Larnaka district, which includes a second vaccine for sheep and goats. Swine vaccinations are expected in the coming days.
Vaccinations will begin in pig farms within a 3-10 kilometer zone from the outbreaks and will then be expanded to pig farms island-wide, Epaminondas said. Replying to a question, he mentioned that it will still take a long time to declare the crisis under full control. He noted positively that units in Limassol and Paphos districts have not been affected so far, while results from testing in the Famagusta region are awaited.
He emphasized that livestock farmers must implement biosecurity measures strictly, especially regarding the movements of people, milk, and animal feed. Epaminondas added that the company receiving dead animals from farms also implements its own biosecurity measures under the supervision of the Veterinary Services. He indicated that strict measures will be introduced during the Easter period at slaughterhouses.
On behalf of the Sheep and Goat Farmers' Coordinating Committee, Nikos Chronis stated that farmers are worried about their future and are awaiting instructions from the Veterinary Services on several issues. In response to a question, Chronis said that the situation is very difficult for everyone and they are waiting to see what support the state will provide, not only to those who have had their animals killed but also for other livestock farmers who are currently unable to move their animals outside the units.
He noted that this has resulted in much larger quantities of animal feed being consumed within the veterinary units. Chronis highlighted that the ban on taking sheep and goats outside the units has implications for the entire livestock industry, not just for those who have had their animals killed. He elaborated that March-April are months that typically cover part of the animals' dietary needs through grazing, and due to the prohibitions, animal feed is used exclusively, leading to an additional financial burden on livestock farmers.
Chronis concluded that there is great solidarity among livestock farmers, and they support those who have lost their animals, but due to the travel ban at the moment, they cannot do much more.