October 18, 2023

Northern Ireland, UK agriculture department calls for public vigilance as ASF strikes Europe

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) of Northern Ireland, the United Kingdom, is urging the public to be vigilant following confirmation of African swine fever (ASF) in a number of countries across Europe.

ASF has now reached Sweden with the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) reporting multiple outbreaks of wild boar in the country. The disease can spread due to inadequate biosecurity by pig keepers, or by tourists and visitors bringing pork products, such as smoked and cured meats, into Northern Ireland from affected countries, DAERA stated.

The overall risk of an incursion to Northern Ireland (NI) has been assessed as moderate.

Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) for Northern Ireland Robert Huey said: "To date there has never been a case of ASF in the UK or Ireland and while there is no human health risk with the disease, it is easily transmitted in pork products and is potentially fatal to pigs. We must remain vigilant and not become complacent of the risks.

"If the disease were to reach our shores, it would have a significant detrimental impact on our pig industry. It would have a devastating effect on export markets and would also require the humane culling of pigs on infected premises to prevent further spread.

"No matter how many pigs you keep, you need to be aware of the potential consequences of feeding food waste to your animals. Not only is it illegal, but you run the risk of spreading disease which could be fatal to your livestock.  The need for consistent excellent biosecurity is also paramount in minimising disease risk, such as providing dedicated clothing and boots for workers and preventing vehicles which may be contaminated from entering pig premises."

It is illegal to bring potentially contaminated pork products from affected areas into Northern Ireland due to the risk to animal health and welfare, the potential to affect human health and the devastating impact they could have on the economy, DAERA highlighted.

Pig keepers are also reminded that it is illegal to feed catering waste of any description or domestic food waste to farm animals in the UK, including pigs kept as pets. 

- DAERA