Newsroom
A decision on how to handle rare livestock breeds affected by foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in Nicosia and Larnaca is expected within days, as authorities continue efforts to control the outbreak and assess its impact on the agricultural sector.
According to the Veterinary Services, the number of infected livestock units has now reached 108 following the confirmation of three additional sheep and goat farms in the area of Athienou. Officials explain that the recent increase is linked to ongoing testing across affected zones, where both positive and negative results continue to emerge.
The outbreak, first recorded on February 20, has spread across both districts, affecting cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs. Of the 108 infected units, 13 involve cattle, 92 involve sheep and goats, and 3 are pig farms. The infected animal population represents about 9.5% of adult sheep and goats, 2.8% of cattle, and nearly 7.9% of pigs.
Authorities say the situation shows early signs of improvement. The virus appears to be weakening, and vaccination efforts are producing results. The second phase of cattle vaccinations has surpassed 80%, while coverage in sheep and goats has reached roughly 64%. Pig farms in containment areas have completed at least one round of vaccination, with some already receiving a second dose.
Culling remains a central measure in controlling the disease. So far, tens of thousands of animals have been destroyed, including sheep, goats, cattle, and pigs. This process is still underway in both districts as part of efforts to prevent further transmission.
At the same time, officials are weighing how to handle rare breeds such as fat-tailed sheep and red cattle. These animals hold particular genetic and agricultural value, so any decision will consider legal provisions, pedigree records, and their share within Cyprus’ native livestock population. Authorities are examining different options, including whether only infected animals should be culled or whether entire groups may need to be removed.
The primary goal remains stopping the spread of FMD. Measures such as vaccinations, movement restrictions, and culling are being evaluated together as part of that strategy. Officials stress that no option has been ruled out.
Despite the scale of the outbreak, key agricultural exports have not been disrupted. Halloumi production and exports continue without interruption because the cheese undergoes heat processing that eliminates the virus. At present, there is no immediate shortage of goat or sheep milk, though authorities acknowledge that continued losses could require adjustments in the future. A transition period for halloumi production quotas remains in place until 2029.
Farmers affected by the outbreak have begun receiving compensation for culled animals, along with support for feed and other costs. The government has also introduced additional aid measures, while acknowledging the financial and emotional strain on livestock producers. Some farmers are preparing further protests, a move officials say is acceptable as long as it remains within legal limits.
Experts also caution that eliminating FMD completely will take time. European Union rules require a waiting period after the last vaccinated animal is culled before full trade can resume, a process that could extend over several years as vaccination campaigns continue.
Health authorities continue to emphasize that FMD does not pose a risk to humans, even as its economic and agricultural effects remain significant.
