Sweden recognized as ASF-free by the EU
The ASF-free status will formally apply when the decision is published in the Official Journal of the EU, which usually happens within a week. The remaining restriction zone can then be lifted and the fence around the core area removed. There have been no further cases of ASF in the Scandinavian country for a year now.
While the Ministry of Agriculture in Stockholm looks back on the past year with some criticism and speaks of tough control measures, the National Veterinary Institute (SVA) is very satisfied. The Swedish strategy for combating the infection has now proven to be successful, according to the SVA's conclusion.
Lena Hellqvist Björnerot, chief veterinarian at the Swedish Agricultural Agency Jordbrugsverket, pointed out, among other things, the good cooperation between hunters, municipalities and authorities as well as the incredible cooperation of the residents in the affected area. The success factors of the Swedish ASF control were determination and efficiency.
On September 6, 2023, the first case of ASF was confirmed in Sweden. The next day, the Agricultural Authority decided to set up a zone of about 1,000 square kilometers with extensive restrictions. The necessary measures on site were directed by district veterinarians from an operational command center. A further 67 wild boar carcasses tested positive. However, according to the results of age determinations, these animals had not died after September 2023.
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