On Wednesday 4 December, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) stated that while fences can help to combat the spread of African Swine Fever (ASF), “they need to be used alongside other measures for maximum effectiveness”.
Fences, combined with culling, carcass removal and existing road infrastructure, can help control African Swine Fever in wild boar, according to an EFSA opinion. However, the success of these fences depends on their rapid installation and regular maintenance. Natural barriers (rivers or urban areas) can also limit wild boar movements, according to the experts.
See the EFSA opinion: https://aeur.eu/f/eml
Although wild boar density is an important factor in propagation, the analysis did not reveal any clear effect. Other factors (habitat, climate and potential barriers) also play a role in the spread of the virus, but more data is needed.
EFSA’s experts examined the use of immunocontraception to reduce wild boar populations and concluded that further research is needed to develop a safe and effective oral vaccine. These efforts should take into account, among other things, the long-term environmental impacts, according to EFSA.
The report examines the role of ticks and insects as potential vectors of the virus. While ticks have not been responsible for the spread of the virus in the EU over the last decade, the role of biting flies remains uncertain.
For domestic pigs, strict biosecurity measures are essential to prevent the introduction of the virus into farms. (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)