Cyprus has recorded no cases of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in the south, the Agriculture Ministry’s Veterinary Services confirmed to the Cyprus News Agency on Thursday. The reassurance comes after authorities in the north reported an FMD incident, prompting a rapid response at EU level.
According to the Veterinary Services, the Republic has activated preventive protocols and is preparing to host a team of specialists from the European Commission’s Veterinary Emergency Team. The experts are expected to arrive within days for an on-site assessment and investigation.
The Ministry clarified that vaccination against FMD is not carried out proactively in EU member states. Under EU veterinary legislation, preventive vaccination is not permitted; it can only be deployed as an emergency suppressive or protective measure once confirmed cases appear.
Officials stressed that all necessary measures are being taken to safeguard animal health, protect public health, ensure the safety of livestock products and maintain uninterrupted trade both within the EU and with third countries.
Source: CNA