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Dangerous swine fever: ASF cases near Hesse confirm warning signs!
Current information on African swine fever in Waldeck-Frankenberg: affected areas, symptoms and control measures.
Dangerous swine fever: ASF cases near Hesse confirm warning signs!
African swine fever (ASF) is raising the alarm again in North Rhine-Westphalia. Calculations show that the disease has now also been detected in areas near the Hesse state border. This shows us that it is time to keep our eyes open and sharpen our own measures. How it is Seknews states, northern and central Hesse are currently still free of ASF. That gives a small glimmer of hope, but the situation is tense.
The first case was registered in southern Hesse in June 2024, and in June 2025 the discovery of an ASF-positive wild boar carcass in the Olpe district caused a great uproar. This is only about 20 kilometers from the Hesse border. The affected districts of Waldeck-Frankenberg, Marburg-Biedenkopf and Lahn-Dill are facing major challenges. The transmission routes are also clear: direct contact between infected wild and domestic pigs as well as contaminated food residues play a central role, as stated on the website of the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture is explained.
The dangers of ASF and protective measures
ASF is a highly contagious viral infection that is almost always fatal in infected pigs. However, anyone who owns animals need not worry, as the disease is completely harmless to humans. However, every farmer should be careful to observe biosecurity measures, secure feed and report illnesses promptly. Like that Agriculture portal writes, it is crucial to report dead wild boars and to keep your distance if you find a sick animal.
The symptoms in sick animals are alarming and include high fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, bleeding and diarrhea. This image is emphasized again and again by experts in the fight against ASF. The transmission of the virus is also pointed out: leftover food should not be carelessly disposed of in nature, as this poses a risk to wildlife.
The role of the community
Keeping an eye on your surroundings is essential in the fight against ASF. Hikers are asked to keep their dogs on a leash and not to leave any leftover food outdoors. Hunters also have a responsibility and should reduce wild boar density to prevent the spread of ASF. Although the number of wild boars shot has increased, hunting is no longer as lucrative for many. Here too, it is important to pull together.
The authorities have already initiated measures: With the help of search teams consisting of dogs and drones, dead wild boars are to be found more quickly. Mobile electric fences and increased hunting are further steps being taken in the fight against ASF. Education is the be-all and end-all, as are the relevant authority approvals and measures to maintain hygiene in pig farming since 1999, which are also explained.
So it remains exciting in the fight against African swine fever. By joining forces and keeping a watchful eye, we can help stop ASF from spreading and give our pigs a healthy life. There is also a lot of information on the Hessian Ministry website for anyone who would like to find out more about this veterinary challenge.