Bonn warns: Beware of African swine fever – this is how you can help!

Bonn warns: Beware of African swine fever – this is how you can help!

African swine fever (ASF) is currently making headlines and is worrying the population in North Rhine-Westphalia and beyond. The veterinary services of the city of Bonn have now urgently asked for increased attention. The reason for this is the recent ASF cases in the Olpe and Siegen-Wittgenstein districts, which could reach alarming proportions. ASF is a highly contagious and usually fatal viral infection that affects both wild and domestic pigs. Fortunately, humans and other animals are not affected by this disease BMEL confirmed.

What is particularly alarming is that African swine fever does not offer any vaccination options, which can lead to significant economic damage to pig farming. In recent years, the disease has become increasingly widespread in Europe, especially in southeastern countries, and Germany has not been spared. Here you registered how Lower Saxony* cites outbreaks in various federal states, including Brandenburg, Saxony, and most recently in Hesse.

Call for help

The authorities are calling for caution: walkers should stay on the paths, keep dogs on a leash and dispose of leftover food in the trash. Under no circumstances should you touch dead wild boars. Any findings should be reported immediately to the relevant veterinary services. The contact points are easy to reach:

• Veterinärdienst: 77 2756
• Ordnungsamt: 77 3333
• Landesamt für Verbraucherschutz: 0201 714488

The Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture has increased educational and monitoring measures and is informing the public about the necessary safety precautions. The AHL (Animal Health Law) has been in force since 2021 and represents an important basis in the fight against ASF. However, responsibility for combating it lies with the individual federal states, which implement the appropriate measures to contain the disease.

Economic impact

The economic consequences of this epidemic are significant. Exclusion zones and trade restrictions can place a heavy burden on businesses. The last outbreak in domestic pigs in Germany took place in Hesse in June 2024. Even if all outbreaks have now been eradicated and official measures have been lifted, the danger remains. Therefore, it is important that livestock owners and veterinarians take proactive biosecurity measures to protect their livestock.

Active surveillance and early detection are essential to prevent the spread of ASF. The goal is clear: to avoid a decline in infections and the associated trade and marketing problems. The challenges are great, but with united forces and an attentive public the virus can be counteracted.

Exchanges with neighboring countries to combat ASF are being promoted in order to detect possible introductions at an early stage. Citizens are called upon to be vigilant and to act quickly if necessary.