New outbreak of African swine fever on a farm in Kelme district

On Friday, 12 September, a new outbreak of African swine fever (ASF) was confirmed on another small pig farm in the Kelme district. This farm, located in the village of Skogalis, was home to four pigs that have shown one of the signs of the virus in recent days - loss of appetite. 

This is the sixth outbreak of ASF on a pig farm in Lithuania this year and the third in Kelme district. It is suspected that the ASF virus has entered the pig farm from a contaminated environment.  VMVT specialists have already undertaken all necessary work to eradicate the outbreak.

Pig farmers are reminded by the VMVT that ASF is a highly contagious disease in pigs and wild boar, and that only by strictly following biosecurity measures can the spread of the virus be prevented. 

The Authority urges all pig farmers, and especially those who keep pigs for their own use, to take a very responsible approach to the situation and to protect not only their own farms but also those around them. Before entering a pig holding area, it is important to change clothes and shoes, disinfect and monitor the health of the pigs.

If any changes in the health of the pigs in the holding are noticed, such as fever, sluggishness, lack of appetite or sudden death, the veterinarian and the MoH must be informed as soon as possible.