First case of African swine fever in wild boars in Collserola in more than two decades

Health authorities have confirmed the detection of African swine fever (ASF) in two wild boars found dead in the Collserola Natural Park, near Barcelona. This is the first case recorded in Spain in more than twenty years. Although this virus does not affect humans, it is highly contagious among domestic pigs and wild boar, and poses a serious threat to the livestock sector and local biodiversity.

In response to this outbreak, the Generalitat has activated immediate control measures, such as restricting access to the affected area, removing carcasses, monitoring movements and stepping up surveillance at nearby farms. So far, no cases have been detected in domestic pigs.

From the Biosafety Committee of the University of Barcelona, we recommend maintaining vigilant surveillance and following the instructions of the health authorities. We should remember that PPA is not a zoonosis, but biosecurity measures must be strictly enforced in research projects, laboratories and environments with susceptible animals.