Rapid Onset Of A Livestock Emergency
Cyprus’ livestock sector is facing growing pressure following the spread of hemorrhagic fever across several free-range farming areas. Authorities report 11 affected facilities and around 13,000 animals considered at risk in regions including Livadia, Oroklini, Troulloi, and Aradippou.
Estimated compensation costs have reached approximately €4.5 million, covering livestock losses as well as related products such as milk and reproductive material.
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Intensified Epidemiological Investigations
Veterinary Services have launched extensive epidemiological investigations aimed at identifying the source and transmission pathways of the outbreak. Law enforcement authorities are also assisting in inquiries related to possible delays in reporting initial cases.
Officials say early notification remains critical for limiting the spread of animal diseases and reducing economic impact on producers.
Strict Emergency Measures Enforced
Following confirmation of the outbreak on February 20 in a cattle unit in Livadia, the government activated its Emergency Action Plan under Regulation 2020/687. Authorities believe the virus may have been circulating earlier in nearby areas.
Key measures include:
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Checkpoint Controls And Disinfection
Police and veterinary teams have established control points and disinfection units in affected zones, including Aradippou, Livadia, Keleia, Troulloi, and Oroklini. -
Movement Restrictions
Transportation of cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, and related feed is restricted without special authorization. -
Product Control Measures
Milk from affected facilities is being removed from the supply chain, while controlled disposal procedures for infected animals are underway. -
Hunting And Outdoor Activity Restrictions
Hunting and dog training activities have been suspended in affected areas to reduce environmental transmission risks.
Political Pressure And Industry Concerns
The outbreak has intensified debate within the Parliamentary Committee on Agriculture, where lawmakers reviewed earlier containment measures introduced in late 2025 after initial suspicions of disease activity.
While laboratory tests conducted in nearby zones previously returned negative results, farmers continue to express concern over economic losses and uncertainty. Authorities say inspections and biosecurity controls will remain in place as monitoring continues.
International Veterinary Cooperation And EU Response
Amid the grim scenario, the EU veterinarian team from Brussels (EUVET) offers a global perspective. With the imminent arrival of 10,000 vaccine doses today from a reserve of 500,000 doses sent to occupied areas, and another 10,000 expected next week, the rollout will be managed under the expertise of EUVET, who remains on the island until Friday.
Notably, although only 11 premises have so far reported contamination, early incidents in a cattle farm and two large sheep stations in the Larnaca district had already captured international attention. In light of this outbreak, the European Commission is set to authorize measures, including a decisive culling of animals at affected farms, destruction of animal products, and comprehensive facility disinfection.
Export Challenges And Future Precautions
Following the outbreak, the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) suspended Cyprus’ disease-free status, temporarily affecting exports of susceptible live animals and certain untreated animal products.
EU guidelines require strict controls within designated restriction zones, including movement monitoring, facility sanitation, and regulated handling of animal products. Authorities say dairy products from affected farms must be managed under controlled conditions to ensure safety.
Moving Forward
Additional measures are expected in the coming days, including expanded vaccination efforts and continued surveillance. Officials say coordination between national authorities, veterinary experts, and EU partners will be central to limiting the spread of the disease and stabilizing the livestock sector.
