First case of African swine fever in North Rhine-Westphalia: Experts sound the alarm!

First case of African swine fever in North Rhine-Westphalia: Experts sound the alarm!

The alarming news reaches us from beautiful North Rhine-Westphalia: African swine fever (ASF) was detected there for the first time. The affected wild boar carcass was discovered in the Kirchhundem area in the Olpe district Bild.de reported. The Friedrich Loeffler Institute (FLI) confirmed the virus detection after initial tests carried out at the Arnsberg Chemical Veterinary Examination Office.

ASF is not a harmless disease; It is extremely contagious and in almost all cases is fatal to domestic and wild boars. This disease is booming in Europe through contact between animals, infected food or contaminated objects and has been spreading rapidly since 2014. Germany currently has around 1,900 cases, mainly in the metropolitan areas around Frankfurt/Main, Mannheim and Mainz.

Protective measures and hunting aspirations

In response to the confirmed case, the authorities immediately took comprehensive protective measures. Exclusion zones have been set up in the Olpe district in which the situation is being intensively monitored. “The hunt for wild boars is being intensified to prevent the spread of the virus and to protect domestic pigs,” said Bild.de. This approach shows how seriously the situation is taken by farmers, hunters and authorities, as they are on high alert.

The transmission routes of the virus are diverse. Experts warn against close contact between wild and domestic pigs as well as contaminated food and equipment. But there is an all-clear for people: the virus cannot be transmitted to people or other pets.

The traceability of the disease

Various FLI maps are available for traceability and monitoring of the disease. They show weekly updated cases of African swine fever in Europe, including detailed case numbers for German federal states. The FLI paid particular attention to geographical distribution. Blue for wild boars and red for domestic pigs - these are the indicators on the map that illustrate the current situation in the affected regions.

The situation remains tense and requires constant adjustment of measures. The authorities are in close contact with farmers to minimize the risk of further spread of African swine fever while ensuring the health of the wild boar population.

In times like these, when nature hits you so directly, we all have to stick together to stop the spread of this insidious viral disease and have a good hand in caring for animals.