Nicosia: A new foot and mouth disease (FMD) case has been detected at a cattle farm in Geri, located within the infected zone in Nicosia, as reported by Cyprus' Veterinary Services. Epidemiological investigations, contact tracing, sample collection, and laboratory testing are currently underway.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Veterinary Services briefed journalists, revealing that the affected farm houses 144 cattle. With this latest detection, the total number of affected livestock units has increased to 52, four of which are in the Nicosia district and the remainder in the Larnaca district.
The Veterinary Services have announced intensified biosecurity measures, including informational text messages sent to livestock traders, animal transporters, cattle farmers, sheep and goat farmers, pig farmers, and abattoirs. This measure aims to ensure strict adherence to protocols, especially with increased slaughter activity anticipated ahead of Easter.
Additionally, abattoir staff have received clear written instructions to avoid contact with individuals working on livestock farms and to refrain from visiting these premises to minimize the risk of disease transmission.
Regarding vaccination efforts, authorities reported that second-dose vaccination coverage has reached 60.8% for the cattle population and 26.5% for sheep and goats. For pigs, 194,700 vaccine doses have been administered, a target achieved within nearly 24 hours, according to officials.
Vaccination efforts are continuing at a vigorous pace to contain the disease's spread, as stated by the Veterinary Services.