Foot and mouth disease has been identified at five additional farms, authorities said on Tuesday, bringing the total number of infected farming units to 59.

Three of the new cases were reported in farms in Dromolaxia-Meneou, and two in the Geri area.

Of the 59 cases overall, 53 are in Larnaca district and six in Nicosia district.

A second round of animal vaccinations is underway, with coverage now up to 64 per cent for cattle and 35 per cent for sheep and goats.

Meanwhile the health ministry said that the payment of compensation for the quantities of milk disposed of at infected farms began on Tuesday.

The compensation amounts would appear in beneficiaries’ bank accounts over the coming week, it said.