Attention! African swine fever at the Lithuanian border - outbreak in a Latvian pig farm
July 1. Lithuania has received worrying news from Latvia – an outbreak of African swine fever (ASF) has been confirmed on a small farm with just 6 pigs near the Lithuanian border, in Zemgale county. This is the second outbreak of this dangerous disease on a Latvian pig farm this year.
The farmer immediately notified the responsible authorities of one sick pig, but after laboratory tests confirmed that the farm was infected with ASF, all pigs had to be slaughtered in order to eradicate the outbreak and to prevent the spread of the virus.
African swine fever outbreaks have already enveloped Lithuania – the virus is active in border regions, and we are watching the warming weather with great concern. Enjoying the outdoors in the summer increases the risk of inadvertently introducing the virus to pig farms.As ASF is widespread amongst the wild boar population in Lithuania's forests, it is essential to observe strict biosecurity measures after a walk in the woods, or you will be infecting your own farm animals without noticing it. Protect your livestock by practicing good hygiene, washing your hands before going to the farm, and changing the clothes and shoes you wear when you are outdoors or in nature, so that you don't have to say goodbye to your livestock when the virus appears. The VMVT is ready to advise and help with any questions that may arise," said VMVT Deputy Director Paulius Bušauskas.
Paul Bušauskas urges pig farmers not to delay and to report any suspicions they may have about their pigs, as timely reporting can help prevent the spread of the disease and protect surrounding farms. If you notice any problems with your animal, you should inform your veterinarian or the Office of Animal Health as soon as possible by filling in a special online form or by calling 1879 or +370 5 242 0108.
