Swedish health officials are worried about a sudden outbreak of a highly infectious and deadly African Swine Fever (AFS), prompting health officials to mandate a huge quarantine zone to prevent the spread from increasing.
At present, we do not know how the infection was introduced but it is a long-distance jump from the nearest infected area in Europe and we therefore assume that it has been introduced through human activity and not wild boar.
There is currently an extensive spread of infection in Europe. There are countries that have succeeded in eradicating the disease, and that is our national goal.
Karl Ståhl a professor at Swedish National Veterinary Institute (SVA), said
This is first ever such case reported in Sweden, according to Svierges Radio. The first case was confirmed by the SVA, found in a dead wild boar outside Fagersta, Västmanland County. Seven other dead boars were found in proximity and will be tested likewise…
