Veterinary services and livestock farmers continued consultations on Monday over the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in a meeting that lasted more than two hours, Veterinary Services director Christodoulos Pipis said. The talks focused on next steps in managing the outbreak and measures in force in affected Limassol and Larnaca areas; both sides agreed not to make public statements until consultations are completed. The consultations follow confirmation last week of a new infected livestock unit in Pachna, Limassol, where authorities culled animals and set protection and surveillance zones after laboratory tests confirmed active infection, senior veterinary officer Apostolos Mazeris said. Authorities are investigating how the virus reached the unit.

Tensions have risen over containment measures and culls, with the Veterinary Association warning vets could suspend foot-and-mouth testing unless police protection is provided amid threats and incidents targeting staff. Association president Demetris Epaminondas described an alleged confrontation during sampling, and farmers have raised concerns about compensation, spread of the virus and culling policies. Reports also said a television crew covering protests in Pachna was attacked by members of a newly formed group opposing the measures.