Fears for Cyprus’ native cattle amid foot and mouth outbreak

Concerns over the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease have sparked debate in Cyprus over whether blanket culling policies could place the island’s native cattle – also known as the red cow breed – at risk.

While authorities typically respond to suspected cases with strict containment measures, including the culling of affected herds, scientists are warning that such an approach may have unintended consequences if applied indiscriminately.

In Akrotiri, where approximately half of the animals are concentrated...