Spain Detects African Swine Fever in Wild Boars Near Barcelona, Prompting Immediate Biosecurity Measures
Two cases of African Swine Fever have been detected in wild boars near Barcelona, the first in Spain since 1994, triggering containment and biosecurity actions.
- • Two wild boars tested positive for African Swine Fever in Bellaterra, Barcelona, marking the first cases in Spain since 1994.
- • ASF is non-zoonotic and classified by the EU as a Category A disease requiring urgent control.
- • Authorities launched investigations and implemented containment measures including area delimitation and hunting bans.
- • The Ministry urged enhanced biosecurity in pig farms and surveillance during wild boar transport to prevent spread.
Key details
The Generalitat of Catalunya's official veterinary services reported the detection of African Swine Fever (ASF) in two wild boars found dead in Bellaterra, near Barcelona, on November 26, 2025. This marks the first confirmed cases of ASF in Spain since November 1994, confirmed by the Central Veterinary Laboratory in Algete, Madrid.
African Swine Fever is a viral disease that affects wild and domestic pigs but is non-zoonotic, meaning it does not pose a risk to humans. Classified by the European Union as a Category A disease, ASF demands swift and rigorous control and eradication measures to prevent its spread.
Following the detection, authorities have initiated an in-depth investigation to determine the origin of the outbreak. To contain the disease, a detailed operations manual has been activated. This includes delimiting the infected zone, actively searching for and officially removing wild boar carcasses, and banning hunting in the affected area to curtail animal movement.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food has strongly urged the pork sector to reinforce biosecurity and surveillance on pig farms and throughout wild boar transport processes. Immediate reporting of any suspicions to official veterinary services has been emphasized to support early detection and containment.
ASF has been present in the European Union since 2014, beginning with outbreaks in the Baltic states and Poland, and currently impacting wild boar populations and some domestic pig farms in 13 countries including Italy, Germany, and Poland. While some countries like Belgium, Sweden, and the Czech Republic have eradicated the disease through strict control measures, the situation remains a significant threat.
The detection of the infected wild boars near the Autonomous University of Barcelona campus, approximately one kilometer apart, underscores the need for vigilant monitoring. Authorities remain committed to implementing all recommended measures to eliminate the disease and protect Spain's pig industry.
This article was synthesized and translated from native language sources to provide English-speaking readers with local perspectives.