Foot-and-mouth disease: Investigation into potential spread in free areas

An investigation is underway regarding the potential spread of foot-and-mouth disease in the free areas of Cyprus, following reports of infected calves being transferred from the free to the occupied areas. The revelation occurred in the Famagusta court, during the hearing for the detention of a Greek Cypriot farmer arrested for animal smuggling in Acheritou.

Christodoulos Pipis, Director of Veterinary Services, stated that he would investigate the matter and stressed the need to intensify controls. He pointed out that any spread of the disease in the free areas would have devastating consequences, leading to the slaughter of thousands of animals.

Emergency measures have been taken at the checkpoints, with mobile disinfection units and vehicle sterilization. Patrols along the green line have also been strengthened to prevent smuggling. An EU expert team is in the occupied territories to assess the situation.

These developments revive memories from 2007, when foot-and-mouth disease caused serious damage to Cypriot livestock farming. Meanwhile, Australia has removed Cyprus from the list of countries that do not face a foot-and-mouth disease problem, which may affect halloumi exports.