Finland expands restricted zones as African swine fever spreads

The African swine fever (ASF) outbreak in Finland has expanded westward, prompting authorities to widen restricted zones in the southeastern part of the country. Following the discovery of an infected adult wild boar in Pyhtaa, approximately 40 kilometers west of the previous boundary, the Finnish Food Authority expanded the infected zone to include Kotka, Hamina, Pyhtaa, and parts of Loviisa, Lapinjarvi, and Kouvola.

Since the first detection of the virus in late July in Virolahti, officials have confirmed between 35 and 36 cases in wild boars. While the core area around Virolahti remains under strict control, the new restrictions aim to contain the spread. Current measures include prohibitions on hunting and feeding wild animals in restricted areas, as well as regulations regarding the movement of pigs, wild boars, and meat products.

To manage the outbreak, authorities have utilized approximately 300 searchers to locate carcasses. Plans are also in place to construct a fence around the core area, a process estimated to take several months, after which controlled hunting will begin. Local veterinarians have inspected pig farms within the wider infection zone and reported no signs of the disease.