Croatia eases African swine fever restrictions in 45 settlements

Croatia is gradually easing restrictions related to African swine fever (ASF) following an improvement in the epidemiological situation. A new Ministry of Agriculture decision has removed 45 settlements in the Osijek-Baranja and Virovitica-Podravina counties from protection and surveillance zones.

No new outbreaks in domestic pigs have been confirmed since August 4. This improvement allows pig farmers to return to more standard production regimes. However, officials emphasize that the virus remains present in wild boar populations, with 197 outbreaks recorded in wild animals as of August 26.

Tatjana Karačić, Director of the Veterinary and Food Safety Administration, noted that while restrictions are being lifted, 32 municipalities remain under surveillance, primarily where the two counties meet. If no new outbreaks occur and inspections are completed, further zones may be lifted by mid-September. Authorities stress that strict biosecurity measures remain essential to maintain stability in the domestic swine industry.