Karacic: We already have more outbreaks of African swine fever than last year

Tatjana Karačić, director of the Veterinary Service and Food Safety Agency, stated during an interview on HTV's Studio 4 program that the number of outbreaks of African swine fever has already surpassed last year’s figures this year. According to her, the disease has started spreading earlier than usual, with the current count of confirmed cases reaching 89, compared to 53 recorded in 2025. She emphasized that these numbers are likely to rise further, especially given the timing of the outbreak, which coincides with summer, a season typically associated with increased occurrences of the virus. The African swine fever continues to pose a challenge for veterinary authorities across Croatia. The early onset of the disease suggests a possible shift in its seasonal patterns, potentially linked to environmental factors or changes in animal movement. Karačić noted that the current situation indicates a more severe epidemic than previous years, raising concerns among officials responsible for monitoring livestock health. The agency is currently working to contain the spread and implement measures aimed at preventing further transmission. The outbreak has affected both domestic pig populations and wild boar populations, complicating efforts to control the disease. Wild boars, known carriers of the virus, have been identified as a key factor in the spread of African swine fever. Their movements across rural areas make it difficult to track and manage the disease effectively. In response, local authorities have intensified surveillance programs and are collaborating with neighboring countries to share information and coordinate responses. This year’s outbreak comes amid broader discussions about the impact of climate change on animal diseases. Warmer temperatures and changing weather patterns may contribute to the virus’s ability to persist and spread more rapidly. Experts suggest that such environmental shifts could lead to more frequent and intense outbreaks, requiring ongoing vigilance and adaptive strategies from public health and agricultural sectors. In addition to the immediate threat posed by the disease, there are economic implications for farmers and the pork industry. Outbreaks can result in the culling of infected animals, leading to financial losses and disruptions in supply chains. Farmers are being advised to maintain strict biosecurity protocols and report suspected cases promptly to minimize the risk of contamination. Government support through subsidies and emergency funding is also being considered to help affected producers. Authorities are preparing for the possibility of an extended outbreak period, particularly as the summer months approach. This includes increasing testing capacities, enhancing quarantine procedures, and promoting public awareness campaigns to educate farmers and consumers about the risks and prevention methods. International cooperation remains crucial, as the virus does not respect borders and can easily cross into new regions through trade or wildlife migration. As the situation develops, continued monitoring and rapid response mechanisms will be essential in mitigating the effects of the outbreak. With the current trajectory, the number of cases is expected to increase, prompting a heightened level of preparedness from all stakeholders involved in animal health management. The focus remains on containing the spread while supporting affected communities and ensuring food security.