EU crisis reserve helps in Cyprus’ foot and mouth disease response

As Cyprus continues to fight the consequences of February's foot and mouth disease outbreak, the European Commission has mobilised its strategic stockpile of emergency supplies, rescEU, to support the ongoing response.

The mobilization follows a request for assistance from the Cypriot authorities via the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. It comprises disinfectants, personal protective equipment, disposable coveralls, face masks, shoe covers, and other items essential for curbing the further spread of the virus.

Cyprus has been collaborating closely with the Commission from the onset of the outbreak. The Commission has already mobilised assistance by providing over 1 million vaccine doses for the entire island from the EU vaccine bank and 3 deployments of an EU Veterinary Emergency Team, who provided tailor-made recommendations and expertise on the ground. Furthermore, Commissioner Várhelyi also visited Cyprus earlier this month to highlight the Commission's full solidarity with Cyprus in facing this outbreak.

Health and Animal Welfare Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi, said: 

‘Foot-and-mouth disease is one of the most contagious animal diseases known. Managing it requires rapid, decisive action based on veterinary science and long-standing international protocols. These measures are necessary to protect healthy livestock, contain the outbreak and allow production to restart safely. We are fully mobilised to support Cyprus. We have already provided veterinary expertise, laboratory support and more than a million vaccine doses from the EU vaccine bank, and the EU will also contribute to financial compensation for affected farmers and operators.’

Crisis Management Commissioner Hadja Lahbib said: 

‘Europe does not wait for crises to escalate. With rescEU, we are acting early and in full solidarity with Cyprus. We are delivering concrete support on the ground, helping contain the outbreak and protect both livelihoods and public health. This is what a Preparedness Union means in practice: Member states can count on Europe when it matters most.’

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The EU Emergency Response Coordination Centre stands ready to mobilise further assistance if requested.

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