Be careful, wild boars! How to protect yourself from African swine fever!

Be careful, wild boars! How to protect yourself from African swine fever!

There is worrying news from the animal world in the Cologne region. The Stade district recently pointed out that African swine fever (ASF) represents a constant threat not only to wild boars, but also to domestic pigs. Wild boars contribute significantly to the spread of this highly contagious viral infection, which has played an increasingly important role since it was first detected in Germany in 2020. The authority therefore appeals to all citizens to immediately report apathetic wild boars or dead animals. The contact point can be reached at 04141/ 12-3931 or by email at veterinaerwesen@landkreis-stade.de.

The successful outbreaks of ASF that have been detected in Sauerland since June 2023 are particularly alarming. So far the outbreak has been regionally limited, but the danger remains. ASF almost always leads to the death of infected pigs and causes considerable animal suffering. With its focus on biosecurity measures, North Rhine-Westphalia demands that all pig farmers urgently comply with these measures in order to effectively prevent the introduction of the virus. Even owners of “Minipigs” are advised to exercise particular caution.

The spread of ASF and preventive measures

ASF is not a zoonotic disease and is therefore harmless to humans. Nevertheless, it causes enormous economic damage to pig farming. ASF has been spreading in Europe since 2014, and in Germany many federal states are already affected, including Brandenburg, Saxony, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Hesse, Rhineland-Palatinate, Baden-Württemberg and North Rhine-Westphalia. In recent years, outbreaks have repeatedly been identified in farmed pigs, highlighting the need for increased prevention measures.

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Particular attention should be paid to the disposal of leftover food. These can contain viruses and lead to infection of wild boars. The Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture has therefore intensified educational and monitoring measures. In the event of outbreaks, exclusion zones are set up and there is a ban on the movement of pigs within these areas. Another point is that the virus can stick to various objects, such as hunting items, clothing or shoes, and so there is still a high risk of infection.

Together against African swine fever

The essential role of citizens in combating ASF should not be underestimated. Your help in reporting suspicious wild boars can be crucial to controlling the spread of this disease. The Stade district and various institutions and authorities are committed to educating people and raising awareness about how to safely dispose of leftover meat and sausages in closed waste containers.

It is important to raise awareness of the impending danger of African swine fever. Only through collective action is it possible to secure pig farming and protect the local wildlife. Stay vigilant and help keep ASF at bay!

You can find more information on the pages of the Stade district, the Federal Ministry of Nutrition and Agriculture and on Tierseucheninfo Niedersachsen.