African swine fever status improves in Croatia as Serbian farmers remain on alert

The epidemiological situation regarding African swine fever (ASF) is showing significant changes in Croatia and Serbia. In Croatia, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries David Vlajčić announced that protection and surveillance zones are being lifted in 45 settlements across Osijek-Baranja and Virovitica-Podravina counties. This follows a period where no new outbreaks in domestic pigs have been confirmed since August 4. While the virus remains present in wild boar populations, the reduction in domestic pig deaths—with over 5,000 culled this year compared to roughly triple that amount last year—indicates that current biosecurity measures are effective.

In Serbia, livestock farmers are being advised to remain vigilant as the disease approaches the Rasina District. Although no outbreaks have been reported in the immediate vicinity of Kruševac, the nearest active hotspot is located approximately 90 kilometers away in Velika Plana. Farmers are encouraged to maintain strict biosecurity protocols to prevent potential damage to local herds, including the indigenous Moravka breed.