Swiss authorities prepare for the arrival of swine fever
Published: Thursday, Apr 18th 2024, 11:31
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The swine fever virus, which is not dangerous for humans, has not yet appeared in Switzerland. However, the responsible authorities are preparing for the disease. Those who dispose of their leftovers correctly can help protect themselves.
African swine fever (ASF) could enter Switzerland via infected wild boar that cross the borders. Or with improperly disposed of wild boar and pork products from areas where the disease has already occurred.
Dispose of food correctly
According to the Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO) on Thursday, the virus that causes ASF can survive for months in animal carcasses. It can also remain infectious for over six months in frozen, dried or salted pork and wild boar meat products, such as raw ham and sausages.
Sandwich leftovers from ASF areas that are thrown on the ground or in open garbage cans at rest areas are easily accessible to wild boars and a popular source of food, wrote the FSVO. If the pigs eat it, a new source of infection could develop.
Food must therefore be disposed of safely and in closed containers. African swine fever is most frequently transmitted through food scraps disposed of in nature.
The authorities are relying on three measures to combat ASF: Establishing a refuge for wild boar so that they do not spread the disease further, removing wild boar carcasses so that the virus does not remain in the environment and, if necessary, intensive hunting of wild boar.
Measures possible in cantons
The cantons can impose further measures. They can restrict access to certain areas and prohibit the throwing away of leftover food in nature, leaving forest paths and allowing dogs to run free. A general ban on hunting is also possible.
Swine fever appeared in Georgia in 2007 and in the Baltic states from 2014. Since then, the virus has spread as far as Germany. There have also been local outbreaks in Italy, not far from the border with Ticino. If the disease occurs, drastic control measures must be taken and the entire herd must be eradicated.
©Keystone/SDA
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