African swine fever spread causes concern
Pig farmers in the UK have been urged to review biosecurity.
As African swine fever (ASF) spreads across Europe, the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe (FVE) has warned that extreme vigilance is needed.
While it does not pose a threat to human health, ASF is highly contagious in pigs, with mortality rates of up to 100 per cent.
After the virus was detected in wild boar in Lithuania earlier this year, the National Pig Association urged the UK Government to boost security against the virus at border posts.
With concerns that the virus is spreading across Europe into Asia, the FVE says extensive culling of wild boar and pigs will have serious economic consequences and trade restrictions.
The federation has reiterated its advice that early detection and response are essential in the control of ASF.
Veterinary surgeons are urged to encourage farmers to report any suspected outbreaks and veterinary services must be well equipped with sufficient trained staff to implement prophylaxis measures effectively.
Sufficient funds must also be available for early diagnosis, effective controls and adequate compensations.
In addition, the FVE says the EU-wide ban on swill feeding must be vigorously enforced as this plays a major role in disease transmission.
Earlier in the month, BPEX advised farmers to review biosecurity and warn staff travelling to and from Eastern Europe that the virus can be transported via contaminated meat.
ASF can survive in raw, cooked, cured and even frozen meat. BPEX warned the virus has the potential to seriously harm the UK pig industry.
Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
