Foot-and-mouth disease reaches critical threshold in Cyprus: culling completed and mass vaccination begun

The Greek Cypriot Veterinary Association and the Small Crop Livestock Producers Association stated on March 31, 2026, that the foot-and-mouth disease situation in Cyprus has reached a critical stage. Veterinarians report a widespread outbreak and are taking emergency measures to contain it.

According to the organizations, culling of infected animals has been completed in farms where the disease was detected, and the first dose of the vaccine has been administered to almost all livestock. In Larnaca, the administration of the second dose has already begun. Authorities have banned grazing outside of farms; as a result, herds are being fed exclusively with fodder, leading to a shortage of feed supplies and reduced warehouse stocks.

It is noted that shipments of pig vaccines are expected today, after which vaccinations in pig farms will begin immediately. Industry representatives warn of potential difficulties in feed supply and ask farmers to strictly follow veterinary regulations.

Practical advice for residents: animal owners should immediately comply with the ban on open grazing and follow veterinary instructions; consumers and farmers are advised to monitor official reports regarding changes in feed supplies and the progress of vaccination.