African swine fever spreads across Serbia and Croatia, prompting emergency measures

In Serbia, an emergency was declared in nine municipalities as African swine fever (ASF) was confirmed in seven districts, 12 municipalities and 58 settlements covering 734 farms. Officials said about 30,000 pigs have been euthanized or died, and the virus is highly resistant in the environment, spreading through wild and domestic swine. Veterinary authorities urge strict biosafety measures such as disinfection barriers, clothing and vehicle sanitation, and limit contact with farms.

In Croatia, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management issued nationwide warnings, expanded protection zones and introduced reinforced inspections. Minister David Vlajčić announced permanent police checkpoints in five eastern counties, intensified border controls with Hungary, Bosnia and Serbia, and the formation of intervention teams to cull wild boars. Over 100 ASF cases have been recorded, with 3,881 pigs euthanized, while more than half of pig holdings fail to meet biosecurity standards. The government allocated roughly €51 million to support affected farmers and stressed that human negligence is the main driver of virus spread.