Finnish authorities prepare to expand swine fever restriction zone

The Finnish Food Authority is preparing to expand the core area of restrictions after 17 dead wild boars were found in Virolahti in southeastern Finland by Monday, Yle reports. The authority was due to provide an update on the African swine fever outbreak on Tuesday.

African swine fever was detected in Virolahti on July 30. The disease is fatal to pigs, but poses no danger to humans or other animals. There is no treatment for the disease.

The current infection zone covers Virolahti, Miehikkälä and Ylämaa in Lappeenranta. Some of the dead boars have been found north of the existing core area, prompting preparations to expand it.

Hunting and feeding wildlife are prohibited throughout the infection zone. Travel in forests by motor vehicle is also banned, and dogs may only be walked on a leash and along roads. Agricultural operators face rules including the disinfection of machinery, while pork may not be transported out of the zone.

Grain harvesting is permitted, although it remains unclear whether anyone will buy grain produced in the area.

People are prohibited from entering forests in the core area so that wild boars are not disturbed. Authorities may enter the area to carry out official duties.

The Finnish Food Authority began searches for dead wild boars in and around the core area with local volunteers on August 6. The EU reference laboratory for African swine fever in Spain confirmed the disease in the first dead boars found in Virolahti. Results from other samples are still pending.

The restrictions may remain in place for more than a year. They can be lifted entirely only after 12 months have passed since the last find, although the boundaries of the restriction zones may change sooner.