What is foot-and-mouth disease and can people catch it?

Foot-and-mouth disease affects cloven-hoofed animals like cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs. It is not the same as hand, foot and mouth in humans. Human infection is extremely rare. Pasteurised dairy and properly cooked meat remain safe. Public health risk is low, but the animal health and trade impacts are significant.

How could the Cyprus livestock export ban affect UK prices?

The ban targets live animals, not finished goods. Still, on-island controls can disrupt processing, shipping schedules, and certification. UK retailers may switch suppliers or adjust promotions, raising short-term costs. Any price moves should be modest and focused on specific Mediterranean dairy or small-ruminant items rather than broad inflation.

What are the Larnaca red zones and why do they matter?

They are designated control areas around confirmed cases, with strict rules on animal movement, testing, and farm hygiene. For buyers, this means more paperwork, origin proof, and possible delays. Clear zoning helps logistics teams route goods from unaffected areas and maintain compliance with veterinary and customs checks.

What should UK businesses do right now?

Confirm supplier origin and contingency plans, especially for dairy and small ruminant products. Line up alternates within the EU, review contracts for flexibility, and prepare customer communications. Monitor official updates and shipping notices, and keep safety stocks sensible to bridge potential delays without overcommitting capital.

Global Market Insights

February 27: Cyprus Foot-and-Mouth Ban Hits Livestock, EU Sends Vaccines

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 27, 2026

On 27 February, Cyprus imposed a ban on live animal exports and started emergency vaccinations in Larnaca red zones to contain Cyprus foot-and-mouth disease. EU emergency vaccines are being deployed while police tighten farm biosecurity after reports of unauthorised access. For UK investors, the shock matters. Cyprus is a key supplier of Mediterranean dairy and meat to Europe, and disruption can ripple into UK retail prices, sourcing, and margins. We explain risks, timelines, and what to watch next. The Cyprus foot-and-mouth disease response will shape short term supply dynamics across spring.