Authorities in Cyprus have increased their safety steps. This is because Foot-and-Mouth Disease was found in animals in the north. This disease is very easy to spread. It affects animals with hooves. It can also spread to people, but this is rare. The agriculture sector is now on high alert.
Foot-and-Mouth Disease spreads very quickly. It can cause big money problems. The disease affects cows, sheep, goats, and pigs. It can also affect deer and wild pigs. The virus can spread from animal to animal. It can also spread through the air. Dirty vehicles or tools can also carry the virus. Now, there are worries the disease could move to other parts of Cyprus.
The virus mainly affects animals. However, people can get it too, but it is very uncommon. If people get sick, they usually have a slight fever. They might also have some pain in their mouth. People can help spread the virus without knowing it. This happens if they do not follow safety rules. An outbreak of this disease can hurt the economy a lot. Trade can stop, and farms produce less.
Because of this situation, Cyprus is adding strong safety rules. They are checking all places where people and animals enter. They are also cleaning vehicles and people more. They are telling farmers and the public to be careful. They want everyone to follow the safety rules. The European Union is helping with this problem. They are watching the situation and giving support. This helps Cyprus stop the disease from spreading.