ASF Sweden: Total number of infections rises to 13

12-09-2023 | |
ASF Sweden
A wild boar carcass found wrapped in plastic to prevent other animals from accessing it. Photo: SVA

The number of wild boar infected with African Swine Fever virus (ASFv) in Sweden has grown from the initial 7 to a number of 13. The Swedish Veterinary Institute (SVA) has confirmed that on Monday September 11th.

All infected ASF carcasses have been found in the direct vicinity of the town Fagersta, in the county Västmanland, where the first 7 carcasses were also discovered.

The search continues

In a news release on the institute’s website, it was explained that the search for carcasses continues. At the moment, it is not quite clear how large the infected zone will turn out to be. The search has begun in the direct vicinity around first detected cases, but the search area will be expanded as time goes by. Participating hunters are exploring the relatively difficult terrain and also carcasses are found that died of other causes – not ASF related.

Area to keep ASF spread under control

In order to keep the spread of the virus under control, an area of roughly 1,000 km² has been identified. In this area, all domestic pigs will have to be culled – this is about 50 animals according to the Swedish Board of Agriculture, the country’s agricultural ministry. These are kept on 1 farm with a local breed, the Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet reported.

Minister Peter Kullgren of Rural Affairs already indicated that the Swedish Board of Agriculture is reviewing the option of financial compensation for affected producers. No official announcements have been made in public.

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Editor of Pig Progress / Topic: Pigs around the world




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