Alarm in the Ennepe-Ruhr district: African swine fever discovered!

Alarm in the Ennepe-Ruhr district: African swine fever discovered!

An alarming case of African swine fever (ASF) has been detected in the Olpe district. The virus, which is almost always fatal for pigs, forces the authorities to be more vigilant. The discovery of an infected wild boar in Kirchhundem, only about 60 kilometers from the district headquarters in Schwelm, has raised alarm bells among pig farmers in the Ennepe-Ruhr district. In view of this new development, as Radio Ennepe Ruhr reports, farmers and pig farmers are well advised to be vigilant.

There are currently 47 pig farms registered in the Ennepe-Ruhr district, including 32 hobby farms. It becomes particularly critical if an outbreak of the disease occurs in two larger farms that keep over 100 animals. Such a scenario would be classified as a worst case. The veterinary office calls on owners to take precautions, for example by fencing off stables and setting up hygiene locks. “Preparation is everything,” those responsible note.

Safety measures in focus

Domestic pigs are mainly infected through direct contact with infected wild boars or through contaminated vehicles and hunting equipment. The organization Presse-Service emphasizes that dead wild boars must also be reported immediately so that the authorities can take preventive action. In an emergency, a hunting rest is even ordered in order not to scare sick animals.

It is particularly important that the movement of people and vehicles on farms is restricted, including for hobby owners. Keepers have already been informed about possible transmission routes and risks in order to protect the pig herds as best as possible. The Friedrich Löffler Institute also supports the reporting and mapping of animal diseases through a special computer program that ensures more effective exchange between farmers and authorities.

The spread of ASF

The spread of African swine fever in Europe, which has been observed since 2014, primarily affects southeastern countries. In Germany there have already been outbreaks in several federal states, including North Rhine-Westphalia. Local authorities are in constant communication to effectively control and prevent the spread of the disease. “The virus remains contagious for a long time and is transmitted through leftover food or social contact between wild and domestic pigs,” emphasizes the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture.

The symptoms of African swine fever are also in the focus of education: These include fever, weakness and breathing problems, which can spread quickly. It is therefore essential to carry out a test immediately if there are suspected cases. The authorities have been on heightened alert since the first wild boar outbreaks in 2020. The current case in the Olpe district once again illustrates the importance of everyone involved remaining vigilant.

In order to protect pig populations and avoid possible restrictions, cooperation between farmers, hunters and authorities is essential. The goal remains clear: to prevent the spread of ASF and to ensure the safety of domestic pigs.