According to the ministry, around 6,650 animals were culled in the districts of Nicosia, Limassol and Larnaca, with the target achieved within two days.
“For the achievement of this target, Veterinary Services staff worked continuously, day and night, making extraordinary efforts under particularly difficult conditions. In Larnaca district, work at some units continued until 04:00 this morning,” the ministry said.
It added that the contribution of the Cyprus Police and the National Guard was decisive, enabling the rapid and effective implementation of the operational plan.
“Cooperation among all those involved is the strongest tool for eradicating the disease, protecting the livestock sector and ensuring the country’s food security,” the ministry stressed.
Dimitris Tsaltas, a member of the epidemiological team, said culling operations in Pachna were completed on Friday, with fattened sheep excluded.
He also clarified that the final culling operations, completed early Saturday, concerned a unit in Athienou. The delay, he said, was due to a legal appeal by the affected farmer to the Administrative Court seeking exemption from the culling order.
The court rejected the appeal on Friday, clearing the way for the culling of animals at the unit.
Vaccination rollout expected next week
The president of the Cyprus Veterinary Association, Dr Dimitris Epaminondas, said 500,000 vaccine doses for ruminants will arrive on Sunday, with customs clearance expected on Monday or Tuesday.
Distribution to districts and the start of vaccinations are expected to begin within the following week.
Source: CNA
