Sweden is recognized as ASF-free by the EU

Sweden is set to officially declare its freedom from African Swine Fever (ASF) within the next week, as the decision will be published in the Official Journal of the EU. This milestone will allow the removal of the remaining restriction zone and the fence around the affected area. The country has not reported any new cases of ASF for a year, earning praise from the National Veterinary Institute (SVA) and the Swedish Agricultural Agency for their effective control measures. The success of the control strategy is credited to the collaboration between various stakeholders, including hunters, municipalities, and residents, as well as the efficiency and determination shown in responding to the outbreak. The outbreak, which started on September 6, 2023, saw initial confirmation in 68 wild boars, but no animals died after this date, highlighting the effectiveness of the control measures.

The ASF-free status will formally apply when the decision is published in the Official Journal of the EU, which usually happens within a week. The remaining restriction zone can then be lifted and the fence around the core area removed. There have been no further cases of ASF in the Scandinavian country for a year now. While the Ministry of Agriculture in Stockholm looks back on the past year with some criticism and speaks of tough control measures, the National Veterinary Institute (SVA) is very satisfied. The Swedish strategy for combating the infection has now proven to be successful, according to the SVA's conclusion. Lena Hellqvist Björnerot, chief veterinarian at the Swedish Agricultural Agency Jordbrugsverket, pointed out, among other things, the good cooperation between hunters, municipalities and authorities as well as the incredible cooperation of the residents in the affected area. The success factors of the Swedish ASF control were determination and efficiency. On ...