Four more cases of African swine fever have been detected among wild boars in the Collserola Natural Park area near Barcelona. All infected animals were found dead in the same sector where the first cases had previously been identified. Catalan authorities are urging residents to exercise extreme caution and to temporarily avoid this part of the park to prevent further spread of the dangerous virus.
According to the head of the Department of Climate, Food, and Agriculture, laboratory tests have confirmed the presence of the virus in the recovered animals. Specialists are now awaiting final diagnosis confirmation from the central laboratory in Madrid. Authorities stress that even accidental contact with contaminated soil or biological material can spread the infection to new areas.
Particular attention is being paid to the fact that the virus can be carried not only by animals but also by people—for example, on their shoes, bicycles, or cars that have been in contaminated areas. Residents and visitors are therefore strongly advised to avoid the marked perimeter to minimize risk.
Economic Impact and Safety Measures
The outbreak of African swine fever has already led to serious economic consequences for the region. Exports of pork products to several countries have been temporarily suspended, which could negatively impact local producers. Authorities acknowledge that the damage could be significant, given the scale of pig farming in Catalonia and the sector’s close ties to international markets.
To prevent further spread of the disease, stricter controls have been introduced on the movement of animals and animal products. Not only wild boars but also domestic pigs are considered at risk, although no cases have been detected among the latter so far. Authorities emphasize that the situation demands coordinated action from all market participants and the general public.
In the coming days, additional laboratory testing and expanded monitoring are planned. Experts note that the timely detection of new cases and strict biosecurity measures are key factors in containing the outbreak.
Impact on the population and recommendations
Despite the alarming news, experts assure that African swine fever poses no risk to humans. The virus is not transmitted to people, either through contact with animals or the consumption of pork products. No cases of infection have been recorded in other animal species except pigs and wild boars.
Nevertheless, residents of Barcelona and surrounding areas are advised to exercise caution and avoid infected areas of the Collserola park. Special attention is being given to pet owners and farmers—they are advised to strengthen biosecurity measures to prevent the virus from reaching farms.
The Catalan authorities emphasize that the situation is under control, but developments in the coming hours and days will be crucial in shaping the next steps in combating the disease. Additional restrictions and protective measures for the industry will be introduced if necessary.
Outlook and next steps
It is still unclear how many more animals may become infected, so active monitoring continues in the region. Authorities hope that swift action will help contain the spread of the virus and eventually resume product exports.
It is noted that the current level of pig farming and the high professionalism of specialists now enable a more effective response to such challenges than in the past. The last similar outbreak in the region was recorded over thirty years ago, and since then, the control and prevention system has been significantly improved.
Residents and business representatives are reminded of the importance of cooperation and compliance with all prescribed measures. Only by working together can the consequences be minimized and both the economy and animal health in the region be protected.
