The Veterinary Services (VS) have intensified inspections of slaughterhouses, butcheries, and retail meat outlets as of Saturday in preparation for the Easter holidays, according to Senior Veterinary Officer Sotiria Georgiadou.
Georgiadou, who serves as the spokesperson for the Veterinary Services, stated that the primary objective of these checks is to ensure that business operators continue to implement required food safety systems, guaranteeing that products are fit for consumption during the festive period.
“In the event that violations are detected, the products will be seized and appropriate fines will be imposed,” she warned regarding the market inspections.
Foot-and-Mouth Disease Update
Regarding the ongoing outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease, Georgiadou noted that the number of infected units remains stable at 52. As of Saturday afternoon, laboratory tests had not identified any new cases.
The most recent case was detected on Friday at a farm in Geri involving 144 cattle.
“We are continuing with sampling and contact tracing. For today, so far, the results of the laboratory tests are negative,” Georgiadou said.
She concluded by noting that vaccinations for cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs are continuing across the affected areas.