The increased incidence of bluetongue among sheep and goats is causing serious concern among livestock farmers, with producers reporting animal losses and impacts on milk production. Speaking on the Alpha Kalimera program, the President of the Goat and Sheep Farmers’ Association, Sotiris Kadis, confirmed that the situation is worse than in previous years.
“It’s definitely worse,” Mr. Kadis noted, explaining that rainfall and increased humidity favor the proliferation of insects that transmit the disease, resulting in its wider spread. As mentioned on the program, complaints have been raised by livestock farmers, particularly in the Limassol district, and reports from the Veterinary Services also indicate an increased incidence of the disease compared to previous years.
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When asked whether the situation has gone beyond normal levels, given the reports of animal deaths at livestock farms, Mr. Kadis was categorical. “No, it’s not okay. It’s going beyond acceptable limits,” he stated, highlighting the need to take measures to limit the spread.
He placed particular emphasis on prevention, urging producers to implement protective measures on their farms, such as spraying and removing standing water that fosters insect growth. He acknowledged, however, that rainfall is hampering these efforts, expressing the hope that the drop in temperature will limit insect activity and, consequently, the spread of the disease.
At the same time, Mr. Kadis emphasized the importance of continuous monitoring of the animals, as bluetongue can cause serious health problems, even death. He urged producers to stay in touch with their veterinarians and take prompt action, as treating the disease becomes more difficult once symptoms have already appeared.
Finally, he also addressed the financial burden borne by sheep and goat farmers, noting that, as he explained, there is no provision for compensation for losses due to bluetongue. “There is no compensation,” he noted, highlighting the additional difficulties producers face due to animal losses and the potential decline in milk production.
