The first dose of vaccination has been completed in approximately 65,000 cattle in the occupied areas as part of efforts to contain foot-and-mouth disease.
According to an announcement by the Turkish Cypriot “veterinary union”, approximately 30 teams completed the process within the week. Administration of the second dose is scheduled to start in 21-30 days.
The “union” said measures decided by the “competent ministry” and “veterinary department” after a case was detected in December at a livestock unit are binding.
It warned that those not complying with instructions will bear legal responsibility, stressing the need for immediate vaccination of sheep and goats to avoid virus spread.
However, the announcement records complaints about poor implementation of measures by local “authorities”, with references to disinfection points that are underperforming, lacking staff or disinfecting materials.
Particular concern was expressed about risks from importing agricultural vehicles and equipment—especially used ones—from Turkey, where the disease is surging.
The Turkish Cypriot veterinarians called on “authorities” to implement strict controls at entry points, leaving open the possibility of even restricting commercial activities if deemed necessary to protect livestock.
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