EU: 'Insufficient measures by Rome against swine fever'

Italy's measures to control swine fever are insufficient. This is the warning of the experts from the EU Commission's EU Veterinary Emergency Team who, in a report drawn up after a mission to Lombardy and Emilia-Romagna, point out that "the control strategy" of the disease "in northern Italy must be improved". A 'common' and 'coordinated' plan is needed for the entire area, as well as an 'urgent extended Plan B for the control and eradication of the disease', the experts write, adding that 'the epidemic seems to be advancing faster than the measures' and 'there is a fear that it will spread eastwards and southwards towards Tuscany'.

Faced with the 'extreme and urgent challenge for the whole world' of combating African swine fever, it is of 'utmost importance to be vigilant and to enforce all relevant European legislation, especially during the peak summer season'. This is stated by the European Commission. The presence of the disease in Europe "is not only a threat to the European pig sector, but can also have major negative consequences for our environment and ecosystems, as well as an impact on agriculture and trade," warns a spokeswoman for the EU executive, pointing out that "the Member States concerned have made considerable efforts to eradicate and contain this devastating disease. "As required by EU legislation, the Commission shall take the necessary regionalisation measures taking into account the epidemiological situation" in the Twenty-Seven, she adds.