ASP risk in the Rhine-Main area: Wild boars under strong control!

ASP risk in the Rhine-Main area: Wild boars under strong control!

In the Rhine-Main area, the situation regarding the African swine plague (ASP) remains tense and not under control. According to Mainz and at the end of December 2024, including the Rheingau and Ingelheim, re-infected wild boars.

In order to act preventively, the city of Mainz had four wild boars kill in the Gonsenheim zoo, despite the fact that these animals were not infected. The decision is based on the fear of infection, in particular due to the danger of visitor feeding. It was pointed out that alternative solutions for killing the animals were considered inadequate to minimize the risk of a possible infection.

Current situation and spread of ASP

The African swine fever, a high-containing viral infection, affects both house and wild boars and usually leads to the death of the animals. The first outbreaks in Germany were registered in 2020. Since then, the plague has spread continuously, with increasing number of cases. In July 2024, over 1,300 domestic pigs were killed due to disease protection measures.

A current evaluation shows that 2,176 wild boar cadavers were found in Hessen by the end of December 2024, 647 of which were positively tested for the virus. The latest finds of infected wild boar were identified near Seeheim-Jugenheim and on Hessische Bergstrasse. The dynamic course of the plague led to the establishment of a new restricted zone in the Rheingau-Taunus district and neighboring areas.

The Federal Ministry for Food and Agriculture (BMEL) emphasizes extensive measures. In addition to the killing of infected animals, strict hygiene and organic safety measures are necessary to prevent any further distribution. The virus transmission paths include direct contact between infected and non -infected animals as well as contaminated objects and food feed.

effects on agriculture and challenges

The effects of the ASP on agriculture are enormous. In the district of Mainz-Bingen, for example, 18 companies with around 100 animals would be affected by far-reaching protection and monitoring measures. This would not only result in financial damage, but also considerable restrictions for the affected population. Therefore, Hessen calls for increased support from the Federal Government to combat the ASP, both in the logistical and financial area for pig farmers.

Although ASP is not dangerous for humans, the concern for the spread remains. The virus is not transferred to humans by eating pork or by direct contact, but contaminated products could contribute to the further distribution of the plague. The Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut also warns of the risk that an entry of the virus will remain in the neighboring countries through illegal disposal of contaminated materials and the high wild boar density.

Overall, the situation is critical due to the positive findings in wild boar and the further spread of the ASP. The upcoming challenges in crisis management require a quick and effective action of all those involved to contain the disease and protect agriculture.