African swine fever in Catalonia has spread beyond the initial containment area. Veterinary officials notified the Ministry of Agriculture of a new case in a wild boar found in Sant Feliu de Llobregat. This discovery marks a significant development. Consequently, the case appeared outside the original ‘zero zone’ established around the Cerdanyola del Vallès outbreak last November.
Following this detection, authorities incorporated Sant Feliu de Llobregat into the high-risk zone. The Official Veterinary Services of the Generalitat reported two new outbreaks since the previous update. Consequently, the total number of notified outbreaks now stands at 31. To date, 162 wild boars have tested positive for the virus across seven municipalities: Cerdanyola del Vallès, Sant Cugat del Vallès, Sant Quirze del Vallès, Terrassa, Rubí, Molins de Rei, and now Sant Feliu de Llobregat.
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African Swine Fever Catalonia: Containment and Surveillance
Despite the geographic expansion, the Ministry of Agriculture insists the virus remains contained within the perimeter-fenced area. Moreover, this area prevents outward spread. In Sant Feliu de Llobregat specifically, containment relies on a double fence installed along the A2 motorway and the high-speed AVE railway line.
Surveillance efforts have been extensive. Beyond the confirmed positive cases, authorities analysed a further 1,112 samples that returned negative results. Additionally, these included 661 captured animals and 451 cases investigated through passive surveillance. For example, officials tested carcasses found in the wild or animals culled after displaying symptoms.
Upcoming EU Vote on Zoning
The Ministry is currently coordinating with the European Commission to formally reclassify the affected region. The goal is to transform the current infected area into recognised ‘Zones I and II’ under EU regulations. This reclassification is a critical step for the local agricultural industry. Moreover, it would allow for the regulated movement of domestic pigs, wild boars, and related products from these zones. However, strict biosecurity measures must be met.
The proposed zoning changes will be put to a vote at the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed (PAFF Committee) in Brussels. The vote is scheduled for 19-20 February. Therefore, if approved, the new zoning will formalise Spain’s control and eradication programme for the spread of African swine fever in Catalonia.
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