Limassol: All samples examined so far for foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) have tested negative, the President of the Pancyprian Veterinary Association and member of the epidemiological team on FMD, Dr. Dimitris Epameinondas, told the Cyprus News Agency (CNA). The current situation sees 121 infected units, with some final samples still pending from the Limassol district.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the likelihood of easing measures depends on the overall picture from sampling results and the completion of vaccinations. Authorities are currently awaiting these outcomes before discussing potential timelines. Surveillance and tracing samples received thus far from Limassol and Nicosia have all tested negative. Final sample results from Limassol are expected soon, and there is hope they will also be negative.
Culling operations have been completed, with no pending issues. Vaccinations are set to begin in units in Paphos and Limassol that had not been covered due to earlier vaccine shortages. The goal is to achieve full nationwide coverage. Meanwhile, police patrols have commenced along the Green Line, with additional measures being discussed with the army and police.
Authorities are considering the next phase, including the potential easing of restrictions. The complete sampling results and vaccination completion are key criteria for assessing the next stage. Internal replenishment of livestock is feasible due to recorded losses, negating the need for imports.
The final samples from Limassol could confirm that the positive unit in Pahna was the first outbreak, preventing further spread within the district. There are indications regarding how the virus reached the Pahna unit, but further details will follow pending the epidemiological report and sampling analysis.