European Commission reduces African Swine Fever restrictions in Pavia

The European Commission has revised the restriction zones for African Swine Fever (ASF) in the province of Pavia, Italy. According to the official update published in the Official Journal of the European Union, 40 municipalities in Pavia will no longer be subject to restrictions, while another 18 municipalities will move from Zone II to Zone I, significantly easing local limitations.

The remaining affected areas are currently contained between the Po River and the A21 motorway. Regional authorities in Lombardy attributed this outcome to coordinated efforts between the extraordinary Commissioner and Sub-commissioner, the Lombardy Region, and various local agencies including Ersaf, Izsler, Ats, Ticino Park, and the provincial police. These actions successfully contained the spread of the disease among wild boar populations.

Lombardy Agriculture Councilor Alessandro Beduschi stated that the decision confirms the effectiveness of the measures adopted through the joint commitment of institutions and the responsibility of livestock farmers. Given that Lombardy accounts for 49% of Italy’s national pig population and is vital for DOP and IGP cured meat production, officials emphasized the importance of maintaining these biosecurity standards.