Baden-Württemberg launches early detection program against ASF
In addition to improved prevention, farms benefit from the early detection of potential outbreaks and, in serious cases, can receive exemptions from the ban on moving animals into restricted zones. The state also covers the costs of examinations and consultations provided by the swine health service.
African swine fever (ASF) has been spreading in Germany since 2020. Baden-Württemberg has so far managed to prevent major outbreaks, but new cases in neighboring countries show that the threat remains. An introduction of the disease into domestic pig herds would have serious economic consequences for the state's agricultural sector. Therefore, Baden-Württemberg's Agriculture Minister Peter Hauk emphasizes the crucial role of biosecurity and is relying on the early detection program.
By participating in the African Swine Fever (ASF) early detection program, pig farms commit to complying with certain requirements, such as regular farm inspections, enhanced biosecurity measures, and regular ASF pathogen testing. As a result, these farms receive a status that allows them to move animals without delay, even when restricted zones are established. "This is the only way pig farmers can effectively prevent significant economic losses ," emphasized Minister Hauk. " Participation in the early detection program is the best insurance for pig farms. It protects against the introduction of the disease into domestic pig herds and prepares farms for an outbreak in the wild boar population ," explained Minister Hauk.
The early detection program essentially consists of two parts. Every three months, farm inspections are carried out on pig farms to check the farm's biosecurity. In addition, so-called "fallen stock" (i.e., dead animals) are regularly examined at the state's testing laboratories. To support farmers, the state of Baden-Württemberg covers the costs of these examinations. Furthermore, pig farmers can take advantage of the Swine Health Service's advisory services when starting the program. The state also covers the costs of these consultations.
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