The latest edition of the Swine Health Information Center’s (SHIC) September eNewsletter highlights important global and domestic swine health developments it monitors. Identifying African Swine Fever (ASF) infected dead wild boar in Sweden takes center stage in this month’s report.
Dr. Megan Niederwerder, Associate Director of the Swine Health Information Center, emphasizes the significance of this month’s global report. She reveals, “ASF is now in Sweden for the first time in history.” The initial discovery involved seven dead wild boar. However, further investigation revealed that the number had now risen to 13 confirmed cases nationwide. The identification of these carcasses led to the detection of ASF.
“The number of ASF infections in Sweden’s wild boar population has grown to 41. So far, all infected animals are in an area east of Fagersta,” reports Dr. Niederwerder. All infected animals are within the zone identified as the “infected area,” with the carcasses located in the county Västmanland, about 145 km northwest of Stockholm. The zone with the found carcasses is just under a 3km radius.
Dr. Niederwerder also discussed potential sources of the infection, including the likelihood of human movement as a carrier, such as the virus hitchhiking on shoes or clothing. Another possibility is the introduction of contaminated pork products, considering the significant geographical distance between Sweden and other European countries grappling with ASF outbreaks. Swedish authorities and health experts are working diligently to trace the origin of the infection.
In addition to the Swedish ASF outbreak, the eNewsletter also highlights a new incident in Lombardy, Italy. This outbreak marks the first detection of ASF on a pig farm in this region. In the northern part of Italy, the location of Lombardy plays a crucial role in swine production within the country. Consequently, the presence of ASF in this area is of significant concern for Italy’s swine industry.
An update on the situation in Lombardy reveals that the number of culled pigs due to African Swine Fever (ASF) has grown to almost 34,000 on 12 farms. The objective is to extinguish the outbreak to prevent it from becoming dangerous to the entire Italian sector’s supply chain.
As part of its commitment to monitoring the ASF situation, SHIC will continue to provide updates through its monthly eNewsletter. These updates will include information on outbreaks and ASF preparedness and readiness in countries that maintain a negative status and wish to remain free from the virus.
The Swine Health Information Center recognizes the importance of proactive measures in controlling and preventing the spread of ASF. Their monitoring efforts are a valuable resource for the swine industry, providing vital information to producers and stakeholders.
In conclusion, identifying ASF-infected dead wild boar in Sweden, as reported in the Swine Health Information Center’s September eNewsletter, underscores the importance of vigilance and proactive measures in managing swine health globally.
“The ongoing monitoring efforts by SHIC serve as a fundamental resource for the industry, providing valuable updates and information. With continued awareness and preparedness, the swine industry can work towards controlling and preventing the spread of ASF.” •
— By Harry Siemens