Vets Targeted for Animal Deaths Due to Foot-and-Mouth Disease, plead for understanding

The Pancyprian Veterinary Association has appealed against the targeting of veterinarians who are obliged to carry out the euthanasia of animals in units where foot-and-mouth disease cases are identified. The President of the Association, Dimitris Epaminondas, stated to CYPRUS NEWS AGENCY that the killing of all animals in such cases is required by European law.

According to regulations, if even one positive animal is identified, the entire unit must be euthanized. Euthanasia is mandatory when there is a clinical symptom, laboratory confirmation, or epidemiological link. Mr. Epaminondas explained that European legislation is strict and contradicts international standards.

Preventive vaccination does not replace euthanasia, as its goal is to limit transmissibility. Even a vaccinated animal, if found positive, must be euthanized. The virus can be shed by the animal for months, making it a source of infection.

Mr. Epaminondas stated that there is no less painful alternative at the moment, but the case of Cyprus is expected to be examined. Cyprus is in a peculiar situation due to the concentration of animals and the Green Line. European legislation remains rigid, while the guidelines of the World Organisation for Animal Health are more flexible.

Mr. Epaminondas appealed for understanding and calmness, stressing that veterinarians are not enemies of farmers and are trying to limit the disease.

Source: CYPRUS NEWS AGENCY