Serious questions have emerged regarding the timeline of the outbreak, after officials revealed that the virus may have been present in affected farms for approximately two weeks before confirmation.
Christodoulos Pippis, Director of the Veterinary Services, stated that the first official notification was received on 19 February concerning suspected cases at a cattle unit in Livadia. Laboratory confirmation followed on 20 February.
However, according to statements by livestock owners themselves, symptoms had been observed as early as 12 February.
Under Article 6 of the Animal Health Law, livestock owners are legally obliged to notify authorities immediately upon suspicion of a listed disease. Officials stressed that compliance is essential to protect both public interest and farmers’ own economic security.
Police investigation underway
The Larnaca Police Directorate has launched an investigation into potential criminal or other offences, including delayed reporting and possible illegal animal or feed movements.
Authorities are examining all scenarios, including the possibility that the virus entered through contaminated animal feed. Any suspicion of illegal movements from areas not under effective government control is also under investigation.
National coordination structure established
Following instructions from the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, an emergency coordination meeting was held involving multiple ministries and state services.
A central coordination body has now been established under the Director of Veterinary Services to oversee containment measures.
Actions include:
- Operation of a multi-agency coordination centre
- Intensified biosecurity inspections
- Involvement of the Cyprus Veterinary Association
- Restrictions on hunter movement within affected areas
- Nationwide ban on movement of cloven-hoofed animals and feed without authorisation
- On-site burial of infected animals
- Destruction of milk from infected farms
Authorities confirmed that emergency protocols under EU Regulation 2020/687 were implemented within 48 hours of confirmation.
Farmers who comply with biosecurity measures will receive full compensation at current market value.
