Strict measures due to foot-and-mouth disease remain in force in Northern Cyprus

The Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources continues to implement general measures to combat foot-and-mouth disease, introduced to bring the disease under control and prevent new outbreaks.

According to the ministry’s statement, based on the current epidemiological situation and the recommendations of the Veterinary Technical Committee, quarantine measures and restrictions on animal movement remain in place.

It is noted that all previously announced measures and bans on animal movement remain in force nationwide. Any movement of animals is prohibited, except for direct transport from farms to slaughterhouses under strict supervision of the Veterinary Department.

As part of disease control efforts, the second phase of mandatory vaccination of cattle is nearing completion. Mandatory vaccination of small ruminants is planned to begin in February.

The ministry emphasizes that due to the high contagiousness of the disease, all producers and representatives of the livestock sector must strictly comply with the introduced measures. Particular importance is given to biosecurity aimed at preventing the spread of infection on farms.

Areas under quarantine:

Full quarantine (1 km radius):

• the villages of Boazici and Atlilar
  In these zones, grazing of animals is prohibited, and access of people and animals to livestock farms is restricted. Sheep, goats and cattle are not allowed to be moved in any way, including transport to slaughterhouses, for the entire quarantine period.

Protection zone (3 km radius):

• Akova, Synyrustu, Aygun and Sandallar
  Quarantine measures remain in force. After completion of the one-month quarantine, animals will be allowed to be sent directly to designated slaughterhouses only under the supervision of the Veterinary Department.

General nationwide measures

• All restrictions on animal movement remain in force
• Any transportation is prohibited, except for controlled deliveries to slaughterhouses
• The second phase of cattle vaccination is almost complete
• Vaccination of small ruminants will start in February

The ministry stresses that compliance with all prescribed measures is critically important to contain the disease and protect the livestock sector.