Foot-and-mouth disease has spread in Dromolaxia, extending the virus outside the initial 10km containment zone, which authorities said was “expected”.

The Veterinary Services reported an “expected” spread, increasing the number of animals earmarked for culling to around 20,500 across 23 infected units.

Spokeswoman Soteria Georgiades said that cases are anticipated at both 3km and 10km, reflecting the virus’ typical progression.

According to Politis, she said the virus remains confined to the Larnaca district, affirming efforts to contain it through strict prohibitions and penalties for illegal movements.

Vaccinations for sheep and goats within the initial 10km zone will conclude on Friday, but the Dromolaxia case has necessitated a slight expansion of the vaccination zone.

Officials have devised a comprehensive vaccination plan that may extend across Cyprus if needed.

In a videoconference with the European Commission, Cypriot authorities inquired if only virus-positive animals could be culled from infected herds.

Georgiades said the commission firmly mandated total slaughter of infected herds without exceptions.

Veterinary Services confirmed discussions would continue to seek alternative measures.

Environmental groups expressed concerns over burial methods, releasing photographs showing animals submerged in water in trenches.

Georgiades defended the procedure, asserting all sites meet health regulations and are treated with lime, clay and disinfectants.

She added that the liquid seen in the photographs was part of biosecurity measures to minimise viral load.