**Bluetongue Virus Confirmed in Sheep in Larnaca and Paphos**
*Larnaca and Paphos, Cyprus - September 2, 2026*
Cyprus's Veterinary Services have confirmed outbreaks of the bluetongue virus in sheep within the districts of Larnaca and Paphos. The outbreaks occurred between October and November 2025, marking the return of serotype 4 (BTV-4) of the virus to the island.
According to official reports submitted to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) on August 20, 2026, two specific outbreaks were identified. The first outbreak was recorded in Steni, Paphos district, on October 8, 2025, involving five cases among 137 susceptible sheep. The second outbreak was detected in Aradippou, Larnaca district, on November 21, 2025, with one case reported out of 20 susceptible sheep.
Bluetongue is a viral disease that primarily affects ruminants, including sheep, goats, and cattle, with sheep being particularly vulnerable to severe clinical symptoms. The virus is transmitted exclusively through insect vectors, specifically blood-feeding midges and mosquitoes of the Culicoides genus, and it is not spread directly between animals through contact.
Veterinary authorities have reassured the public that bluetongue virus poses no risk to humans. There is no danger associated with consuming milk, meat, or any derivatives from affected animals.
To combat the spread of the virus, the Veterinary Services are urging farmers to conduct daily monitoring of their flocks for early signs of the disease. Symptoms to watch for include high fever (up to 42°C), severe lethargy, swelling around the mouth, eyes, and ears, as well as nasal discharge that may progress from watery to thick. Additional symptoms may include inflammation and sores in the mouth, blue discoloration of the tongue (which is rarely observed), and lameness due to hoof inflammation.
In light of these outbreaks, the Veterinary Services have recommended several measures for farmers to protect their flocks and limit the presence of insect vectors. These measures include the use of approved insect repellents on animals, regular spraying of stables with suitable insecticides, limiting grazing during late afternoon hours when mosquito activity is highest, and controlling the movement of animals to minimize exposure to potential carriers of the virus.
The recent outbreaks highlight the importance of vigilance in animal health management, particularly as this strain of bluetongue had previously been eradicated from Cyprus. The Veterinary Services are committed to implementing all necessary precautions to prevent further spread of the virus and protect the health of livestock across the island.
As the situation develops, authorities will continue to monitor the health of ruminants and provide updates to farmers and the public. The return of bluetongue virus underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the agricultural sector in managing animal health and biosecurity.
For more information and updates on this issue, farmers and the public are encouraged to stay connected with the Veterinary Services and follow their guidance closely.