African Swine Fever (ASF) in Europe, Belgium and close to the Netherlands

African Swine Fever (ASF)

African Swine Fever or flu (ASF) is an infectious viral disease in domestic pigs and other pig-like animals. In 2018 the virus made a big leap, infecting wild boars in Belgium.

The disease can result in up to 100% fatalities in a population.
Pigs or swines that survive the acute phase may apparently recover and still cary the virus for several months. The symptoms can look very much like those of classical swine fever. There is no vaccine available for African Swine Fever.

Spread of the virus

African Swine Flu arrived in Georgia from Africa in 2007. From there the virus spread to Russia and other countries, reaching the European Union in 2014. In September 2018 the virus made a big leap, infecting hundreds of wild boars in Belgium. In 2019 there were 8,315 outbreaks in Europe among wild boars and domestic pigs (source: European Commission). Especially in Poland and Romania there are many outbreaks.

There are also large outbreaks in Asia. In China for example, around a hundred pig farms have been infected since August 2018.

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Routes of dispersal

There are different routes of dispersal. Dispersal via bringing in contaminated food (meat, sausage etc.) is one of the routes humans have a large influence on. Being alert and acting in an aware and responsible way on the part of pig farmers, hunters and individuals are extremely important in preventing the disease from spreading.

Infographic: how pigs and wild boards become infected
Infographic: how pigs and wild boards become infected

Safeguarding the Netherlands

In the Netherlands, safeguarding against and combating African Swine Fever is a task carried out by the government. Should African Swine Fever be introduced, the Netherlands is ready to combat an outbreak rapidly.

Role of Wageningen University & Research

Wageningen Bioveterinary Research (WBVR) contributes to suppressing ASF by rapidly testing samples for the presence of the virus. We coordinate the monitoring of wild boars for ASF. In addition, we carry out research for maintaining and expanding expertise, as well as advise the government and other organisations on ASF.