African swine fever detected in Finland for first time

Finland has recorded its first cases of African swine fever, with the disease found in dead wild boar piglets in the Kymenlaakso region, ERR reported.

A protection zone has been established in the area, with strict rules in force. Even berry picking is prohibited.

Although Kymenlaakso has no large pig farms, there are concerns that other countries could impose restrictions on imports of Finnish pork. Such restrictions in Asian countries could remain in place for years.

“The finding is extremely serious. It is dangerous for pigs and pork exports. Fortunately, it does not infect people, so the disease poses no danger to ordinary consumers,” an expert said.

The disease is a fatal and contagious haemorrhagic illness in pigs. Finnish pork exports are worth tens of millions of euros annually, meaning the impact could multiply if the crisis continues for a longer period, the expert said.