Six weeks of swine fever

– Six weeks of swine fever – Aid for farmers confirmed

Six weeks after the first detection of African swine fever (ASF) in Hesse, the predominantly affected district Great Gerau offers farmers further support. “We, as a district, do everything we can to help farmers. From conversations and tips to psychological counseling to identifying financing options,” explained district administrator Thomas Will (SPD).

Meanwhile, the virus has spread to seven backyard pig herds. All the animals had to be culled there. “The affected farmers are receiving compensation from the Animal Disease Fund and the state, but they are facing an existential threat,” he added. ASF was confirmed for the first time in a wild boar in the South Hessian district of Bergstraße last weekend.

The dead animal was found west of the municipality of Einhausen by a farmer who was inspecting his fields with a drone to obtain permission for the upcoming harvest. Due to the outbreak of swine feverFarmers currently have to ensure that their areas are free of wild boar before they can use their machinery in the fields.

Precautionary actions

In the Head-Kinzig district, no cases of ASF have been reported so far. To prevent an outbreak, the first measure taken is to reduce the wild boar population in the district. Hunters receive a reward of 25 euros as an incentive. In addition, there are no charges for trichinosis testing of wild boars.

The city of Rüsselsheim (Groß-Gerau district) plans to designate an area as a temporary dog ​​run, where dogs are allowed to run free. The area is expected to be operational in August, the city administration announced. Since the arrival of ASF, dogs must be kept on a leash in the entire municipality of Rüsselsheim. The leash requirement is enforced, with a fine of 100 euros for violations.

The viral disease is incurable and almost always fatal for wild and domestic pigs. According to the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, it is harmless to humans and other animal species, even if the meat of infected animals is consumed.

Other farmers in neighboring districts are keeping a close eye on their pig herds due to the spread of swine fever. Despite assurances of safety from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, there is growing concern among the farming community about the possible impact of other species becoming carriers of the virus.

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