Mossos d’Esquadra and Rural Agents are intensifying surveillance in Catalonia’s natural areas. This action aims to curb the spread of African Swine Fever (ASF) during the Easter period. Authorities urge the public to exercise extreme caution. They also ask residents to adhere to new restrictions as many visit the countryside.
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The increased police presence aims primarily to raise public awareness. This is according to Iolanda Candel, a sub-inspector for Mossos d’Esquadra in Cerdanyola del Vallès. She explained that the focus is on education. However, severe infractions, such as removing ASF control fences, could lead to criminal charges. Mossos d’Esquadra have already acted on nine such cases since the outbreak began. Visitors must avoid activities that could facilitate disease transmission. This includes staying on marked paths and refraining from entering unauthorised zones. Authorities also stress the importance of not leaving food waste in natural environments. They advise against interaction with animals, especially wild boar. These measures are vital for public health and environmental protection.
Rural Agents work 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to manage the situation. Their efforts concentrate on three main areas: removing deceased animals to prevent contagion, capturing live wild boar within affected zones, and controlling the perimeter to stop the disease from spreading. With the anticipated increase in visitors over Easter, security forces will step up vigilance at natural area access points. This ensures compliance with restrictions. It also protects both the natural environment and the vital livestock sector. The Llobregat river area, popular with hikers and nature enthusiasts, is a key focus for these preventative actions. The disease poses a significant threat to pig farming, a crucial part of Catalonia’s economy.
New Measures to Bolster Control
Authorities are currently deploying a new barrier on the opposite bank of the Llobregat river. This preventive measure aims to enhance the security and effectiveness of existing control efforts. Jaume Torralba, the regional head of Rural Agents in Barcelona, confirmed a notable decrease in the wild boar population. This reduction is a direct result of ongoing capture programmes.
Containing the Outbreak
In the last week alone, authorities captured 268 wild boar within a 20-kilometre radius. Authorities also detected three positive cases of African Swine Fever within the designated risk zone. However, Mr Torralba stated that concern remains low. This is true as long as these cases do not spread beyond this specific area. The ongoing efforts are crucial for containing the virus. They also safeguard Catalonia’s agricultural economy. This includes protecting pig farms across the region from devastating outbreaks.
Public Cooperation Essential
The authorities continue to appeal for public cooperation during this critical period. Following guidelines helps protect Catalonia’s natural heritage and its agricultural economy. Continued vigilance and adherence to restrictions will be vital in preventing further spread of the disease. Residents and tourists alike play a crucial role in these containment efforts.
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Originally published by betevé. Read original article.
