France launches surveillance for fatal Aujeszky virus in hunting dogs

The National Federation of Hunters (FNC) and the National Order of Veterinarians have launched a prevention and surveillance campaign to track Aujeszky disease in France. This fatal viral infection is transmitted by wild boars and primarily affects hunting dogs.

The virus attacks the central nervous system and causes intense itching, which can lead dogs to mutilate themselves through scratching. While official records show between 40 and 60 cases annually, experts believe many infections go unrecorded.

Cases are reported across France, particularly in regions with high wild boar density, including the east, center, and south of the country. A new epidemic surveillance network has been established to better understand the distribution and impact of the virus.