Authorities in Cyprus are watching closely for foot-and-mouth disease (FMD). This is a very contagious sickness that affects farm animals with hooves. The alert level went up three weeks after the disease was first found in Lapathos. Three cases have been confirmed since then.
No new cases have appeared. However, the island's animal health experts are working with others. They are using many plans to stop the disease. This is important to protect the farms.
The first outbreak was in December at a farm. An EU Commission team arrived to investigate. Cyprus animal health services are leading the effort to control the disease. They are also working with the British Bases. They are also cooperating with an institute in Ankara.
A plan to vaccinate animals is a big part of stopping the disease. The head of animal health services said cattle vaccinations in the North are finished. More cattle vaccinations will start soon. Vaccinations for sheep and goats will also start shortly. This helps animals become stronger against the sickness.
Animal health officers are checking farms more closely. They are looking at farms near the buffer zone. This is an important line on the island. They are taking samples from animals for testing. Farmers must follow strict rules to stop the disease.
The British Bases are also helping. They are cleaning areas at crossings. This stops the disease from spreading. They want to protect areas where no cases have been found. This is a coordinated effort to keep the island safe.