On 15 and 16 December, two separate foot and mouth disease (FMD) outbreaks were confirmed in Turkish-controlled Northern Cyprus. An outbreak was detected on 15 December in Ayios Sergios (Famagusta district), and four cases were reported in cattle at a farm in Lapithos (Kyrenia), some 75 kms to the north-west of Ayios Sergios.
Laboratory testing by the Turkish Foot and Mouth Research Institute in Ankara identified the SAT1 serotype as the causative agent. Approximately 13,000 animals, including cattle, sheep, and goats, are being vaccinated by 35 teams across Northern Cyprus. Spread of this virus in a number of countries was considered ‘highly likely’ by FAO experts in their 4 December risk assessment.
First outbreak since 2007
The Republic of Cyprus (government-controlled areas) has reported no FMD cases as of 18 December and the Agriculture Ministry's Veterinary Services is implementing preventive measures. An EU Veterinary Emergency Team arrived on 19 December for on-site review.
Cyprus has maintained FMD-free status since 2008, following a 2007 outbreak caused by serotype O. The country discontinued vaccination in 1984, and prior to the 2007 event, FMD had not been recorded in Cyprus since 1964.
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