Cyprus plans mass livestock vaccination to halt spread of foot-and-mouth disease - AP News
AP News
February 26, 2026
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Cyprus is set to implement a large-scale vaccination program targeting livestock in an effort to curb the spread of foot-and-mouth disease. This initiative aims to protect the country's agricultural sector and prevent potential economic losses from disease outbreaks. The decision comes after several incidents of the disease being detected, which have posed significant risks to both animal health and trade relations.
The disease primarily affects cattle, sheep, and goats, causing severe financial repercussions for farmers due to loss of productivity and market access. By vaccinating all susceptible animals, Cyprus seeks to create a barrier against further spread, ensuring that infected herds do not lead to regional outbreaks. Veterinarians and agricultural experts are supporting this measure, emphasizing its effectiveness in mitigating the disease's impact.
This program underscores the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding public health and economic stability. Foot-and-mouth disease, while not typically harmful to humans, can have cascading effects on food security and global trade. By addressing the issue early, Cyprus is setting a precedent for other regions facing similar challenges, demonstrating how
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Originally published on AP News on 2/26/2026