December 23, 2024

Ireland cautions against bringing pork from ASF-affected areas into country

Ireland's Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) has reminded those travelling to the country this Christmas to not bring pork or pork products from areas affected by African swine fever (ASF).

The disease first entered the European Union in 2014, and has since been confirmed in Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Poland, Moldova, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Slovakia, Ukraine, Serbia, Belgium, Czech Republic, Germany, Greece, and Italy.

To date, the only countries within the EU to have successfully eradicated the disease are the Czech Republic and Belgium.

Ireland has never had a confirmed case of the disease.

"If you're traveling this Christmas, don't risk bringing pork or pork products into Ireland from areas affected by African swine fever," DAFM said. "ASF is a viral disease of pigs that can result in devastating losses for pig farmers and the pig industry."

Additionally, the department advised to not bring meat or meat products onto Irish pig farms, and to always use a secure bin to dispose of waste food.

If visitors have been in contact with pigs in a region affected by ASF, it is advised that they do not visit any pig premises in Ireland for a minimum of 72 hours.

- Agriland