Foot and Mouth Disease: Measures at Checkpoints to Disinfect Vehicles

Concern has arisen in the free areas of Cyprus due to the appearance of foot and mouth disease cases in the occupied territories. Foot and mouth disease is an animal disease that affects cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats, and can cause serious economic consequences.

The Veterinary Services have taken measures at the checkpoints, transporting medicines and equipment to disinfect vehicles passing through the occupied territories. Specifically, a mat impregnated with disinfectant will be placed for vehicles to drive over to disinfect their tires.

Initially, police and customs officers were asked to undertake the spraying, but due to technical issues and reactions, the matter will be discussed again to determine who will be responsible. The British Bases have also taken precautionary disinfection measures at the Pergamos and Strovilia crossing points.

The Veterinary Services recommend that farmers take measures such as using disinfectants at the entrances of farms, regular cleaning and disinfection, and daily inspection of animals.