Cataluna labs under investigation after African swine fever outbreak

"Catalan and Spanish authorities have conducted a court-ordered search of the IRTA-CReSA animal health research laboratory in Bellaterra, near Barcelona, following the outbreak in November of African swine fever (ASF) in the region. The search was carried out under judicial mandate from the Juzgado de Instrucción nº 2 of Cerdanyola del Vallès, with officers from the Mossos d'Esquadra and Guardia Civil. Judicial proceedings were declared secret due to the sensitive nature of the investigation."

"ASF is a highly contagious disease affecting pigs and wild boar but does not infect humans. The virus can cause near-100 % mortality in infected swine, prompting swift action to protect livestock and prevent spread across Spain, one of Europe's largest pork-producing regions."

"The outbreak was initially detected when infected wild boar carcasses were found near the IRTA-CReSA laboratory in the Collserola hills in late November. At least 26 carcasses have tested positive for ASF within the containment zone surrounding the laboratory. In response, authorities imposed movement restrictions on both domestic pigs and wildlife, alongside active monitoring protocols. The aim is to limit further spread among wild boar and prevent contamination of commercial pig farms. Authorities also noted that other animal research centres in the area, five facilities within 20 kilometres, are being reviewed to assess biosecurity compliance and potential links to the outbreak."

Catalan and Spanish authorities conducted a court-ordered search of the IRTA-CReSA animal health research laboratory near Barcelona after an African swine fever (ASF) outbreak in late November. Judicial mandate came from Juzgado de Instrucción nº 2 of Cerdanyola del Vallès and involved Mossos d'Esquadra and Guardia Civil, with proceedings declared secret. ASF is highly contagious in pigs and wild boar, causing near-100% mortality in infected swine and posing major risk to Spain's pork industry. Infected wild boar carcasses were found near the lab, with at least 26 positives within the containment zone. Movement restrictions, active monitoring, and reviews of nearby research centres aim to limit spread and assess biosecurity.

Read at Euro Weekly News