The culling of approximately 6,000 animals affected by foot-and-mouth disease in Cyprus remains pending as authorities work to identify suitable burial sites and prepare teams, according to Dimitris Epaminondas, president of the Pancyprian Veterinary Association. This measure follows a directive from the president and European Union regulations requiring the removal of infected animals to contain the outbreak. About 70,000 animals have already been culled since the outbreak started.

The second phase of the national vaccination programme is underway, with an expected completion timeline of two to three months. Additional vaccine doses are anticipated soon, including 500,000 doses for ruminants and another 500,000 for pigs, which will help cover the entire animal population nationwide. However, some livestock units have yet to complete the vaccination process.

Enhanced coordination between veterinary services, police, and livestock farmers is critical to enforcing measures that prevent illegal animal movement and ensure security during culling operations. Authorities emphasize the importance of personnel safety and stricter monitoring at crossing points and ceasefire lines to effectively manage and eventually control the disease outbreak.