Cyprus is dealing with a problem of Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD). This is a very contagious illness for farm animals. The number of cases is stable now. However, vets are still killing infected animals. This is important to stop the disease. The European Union (EU) requires this to protect farming. A vaccination program is also happening. This helps animals fight the virus.
There have been 42 cases of FMD on the island. Vets are working in areas like Dromolaxia, Geri, and Livadia. They are killing animals to stop the virus from spreading. The EU says infected animals must be killed. This shows how serious the disease is. It could hurt the economy badly.
Many animals are also getting vaccinated. More than 85% of cattle have been vaccinated. This is a big step to control the disease. Vaccination for sheep and goats is also increasing. This helps protect more animals. Vaccinations are important for now and the future.
When a new case is found, officials investigate. They try to find out how the virus is spreading. They also collect samples from animals. This helps them track the virus. The samples show if animals are naturally infected. They are different from samples after vaccination.
Some farmers had problems with taking samples. This happened in Geri. They thought vaccinations should come first. Vets explained the tests. They said the tests find real infections. This reassured the farmers.
This disease affects more than just animals. The farming sector is important for Cyprus. If FMD is not stopped, it could harm the economy. Killing animals is hard for farmers. But it helps protect their future. The next few weeks are important. We will see if the plans are working.