Civil protection units in Zug and Schwyz conduct African Swine Fever drill

Civil protection members from the Swiss cantons of Zug and Schwyz completed specialized training in disease control in early October 2026. The training concluded with a practical exercise at the Chamau estate, simulating an outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF).

The exercise focused on supporting veterinary services by establishing and operating a 'damage site' (Schadenplatz), an organized deployment area. Key training components included managing hygiene protocols, setting up personnel decontamination stations to prevent the spread of pathogens, and coordinating workflows between different operational areas.

Participants studied the theoretical foundations of animal diseases and transmission routes before applying these skills in a simulated environment. The drill was observed by Zug Cantonal Veterinarian Ramon Bucher and butchers from the Walterswil slaughterhouse, who play critical roles in professional animal culling during actual disease events.