Tuscany reports first African swine fever case in domestic pig

On 26 June 2024, the first confirmed case of African swine fever (ASF) in a domestic pig was identified in the municipality of Comano, province of Massa Carrara, Tuscany. The virus was detected on a carcass by CEREP, the national reference centre for swine diseases, after routine veterinary checks by the ASL Toscana Nord Ovest.

A central crisis unit convened by the Ministry of Health, together with regional authorities and the special ASF commissioner, defined containment measures. Protection zones (3 km radius) and surveillance zones (10 km radius) were established, extending into neighbouring Emilia‑Romagna. Active and passive surveillance have been intensified, animal movements from the farm are halted, and carcasses are to be destroyed. The outbreak follows previous detections of ASF in wild boar in the same area.

ASF does not transmit to humans; the risk to public health is nil, but the disease threatens the livestock sector. Regional president and health and agriculture departments are monitoring the situation in coordination with national agencies.