German pig producers are asking for more effective measures against ASF
A more consistent approach in tackling the ASF outbreaks in Germany is required by the German Farmers’ Union (DBV), who considers the measures implemented so far as insufficient. In a press release, chairman Hubertus Beringmeier stated that more effective measures are needed in the battle to overcome ASF.
"In view of the steadily spreading animal disease, the previous crisis structures and the decisions made there obviously need to be significantly improved. The development shows that we need more effective measures in the affected federal states in order to stop and push back the epidemic," explained Beringmeier.
In his opinion, the most important elements are the coordinated and consistent removal of wild boars along the Polish border and the immediate erection of a second protective fence. In view of the enormous, long-term epidemic pressure to be expected from the Polish side, it should be clear to all those responsible in the affected federal states that the control measures taken must be installed over a period of years with the appropriate human and financial scope and perseverance, stated Mr. Beringmeier.
Belgium, a neighboring country has managed to solve its ASF outbreak in the wild boar population without any domestic pig farm infected. Last year, Belgium was declared ASF-free, after two years of ongoing outbreaks in wild boars. The Belgian authorities decided from the first moment of the crisis to liquidate any domestic pigs in the infected areas to stop the disease from spreading in commercial farms. So far, Germany has been elusive in taking radical measures and that is one point of discontent between DBV and the authorities. "The keeping of animals by small animal owners may have to be terminated in return for compensation. Furthermore, it is urgently necessary to find appropriate marketing opportunities for pig farmers in the restriction zones or to provide adequate compensation regulations," said Beringmeier in the press release.
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