Veterinarians rehearse operations against swine fever

Veterinarians from veterinary offices in Saxony, Thuringia and Saxony-Anhalt have trained in a joint exercise on what to do in the event of an outbreak of African swine fever. The aim was to prevent the disease from spreading to domestic pigs, according to the Saxon Ministry of Health. "The veterinarians rehearsed a coordinated approach in five large pig farms and a wildlife park." This involved epidemic investigations, biosecurity checks, coordinated administrative action and communication with livestock farmers.

"The exercise is intended to provide clarity and experience in the event of a crisis, when all crisis management measures have to be implemented smoothly," explained Health Minister Petra Köpping (SPD). Saxony has been struggling with outbreaks of swine fever for several years, but so far only in wild animals.

Köpping stated that it had been possible to significantly reduce the outbreak. This would allow the experts to pass on their knowledge and experience to colleagues from central Germany. The three-day exercise in the districts of Central Saxony and Saxon Switzerland-Eastern Ore Mountains involved 30 vets.

Almost 2,400 ASF cases in Saxony

The first case of African swine fever (ASF) occurred in Saxony at the end of October 2020. Since then, almost 2,400 cases have been detected, according to the ministry. Of these, 132 are still considered active, i.e. no more than a year ago. According to Köpping, the disease has been successfully contained in Saxony. Nevertheless, there is a risk that it could be introduced into pig fattening facilities. It is therefore important to practice for emergencies.

African swine fever is transmitted by viruses. It only affects pigs, whether in the wild or in livestock farms. The pathogen is harmless to humans. According to experts, the infection in animals is almost always fatal and cannot be cured. There is currently no protection through vaccination.