Foot-and-mouth disease has emerged in occupied Cyprus, raising significant alarm in the free areas and prompting heightened vigilance to prevent the virus from crossing the Green Line.
- Foot-and-mouth disease has emerged in occupied Cyprus, raising significant alarm in the free areas and prompting heightened vigilance to prevent the virus from crossing the Green Line.
This highly infectious zoonotic disease poses a serious threat to livestock farming rather than directly endangering human health. It primarily affects cloven-hoofed animals, including cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs, as well as wild ungulates like deer and buffalo.
Foot-and-mouth disease: Rapid Spread and Symptoms
The virus spreads with alarming ease, transmitted through direct animal contact, airborne particles, or contaminated vehicles and equipment. Humans can inadvertently contribute to the virus’s spread by moving between infected and clean areas.
Infected animals typically exhibit high fever and develop painful blisters in their mouths, tongues, lips, and hooves, which can lead to lameness and an inability to feed. Young animals are particularly vulnerable, with the disease proving fatal in some cases. Management of foot-and-mouth disease relies heavily on prevention, immediate isolation of infected animals, strict biosecurity measures, and vaccination as needed.
Minimal Risk to Humans
While foot-and-mouth disease is not considered a serious threat to humans, transmission can occur, although it is exceedingly rare. When it does happen, symptoms are usually mild, such as low fever and mouth irritation.
Heightened Alert in Cyprus
The recent confirmation of foot-and-mouth cases in the occupied areas has pushed authorities in the Republic of Cyprus to implement extensive control measures. Quarantines, mass vaccinations of animals, and activation of European monitoring mechanisms are now in effect. The Republic’s Veterinary Services have ramped up preventive strategies, which include stringent checks along the Green Line, vehicle disinfections at crossing points, and increased surveillance of livestock units.
As of now, the situation in the free areas remains stable, with no cases reported. However, officials stress that the risk of transmission persists, necessitating continuous vigilance and strict adherence to biosecurity protocols by both farmers and the general public.
Preventive Measures and Community Responsibility
The ongoing threat of foot-and-mouth disease serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance within Cyprus’s geography. The island’s intense movement of people and livestock highlights the importance of prevention as the most effective ‘vaccine’. Authorities urge everyone to adopt a responsible attitude towards biosecurity, reinforcing the need for cooperation among farmers and citizens alike to safeguard the nation’s livestock and agricultural output.
