Swine fever's expansion remains unchecked.
The city of Bad Berleburg, located in the district of Siegen-Wittgenstein, is currently grappling with an outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF). The disease, which affects both wild and domestic pigs, was first identified in the Wisent wildlife area at the beginning of July 2025.
Dr. Ludger Belke, the head of the local veterinary office, has confirmed the outbreak and is leading the efforts to contain the spread. The initial infected pig was found in the Wisent wildlife area, and further testing is underway on carcasses discovered in the same location.
To manage the outbreak, an infected zone has been established to limit movement and reduce the spread among wild boars. Ongoing search and testing of wild boar carcasses are being conducted to monitor the extent of the outbreak. Regional control protocols, as per EU regulations, have been implemented to notify and inform authorities and the public.
While dogs and other domestic animals are not directly affected by ASF, biosecurity measures have been heightened to prevent mechanical transmission of the virus via fomites (contaminated materials or equipment) and to minimize any risk of virus spread through human activity or domestic animals. This includes restricting access of pets, including dogs, to infected zones and wild boar habitats to avoid indirect transmission risks.
Dr. Belke considers the situation serious and believes that the disease will spread further in Siegen-Wittgenstein. He suspects that the ASF will not be limited to the already dead pigs and has called on dog owners to keep their pets on a leash to prevent the potential spread of the disease.
The Wisent wildlife area, where the first infected pig was found, remains closed as part of the efforts to prevent the spread of ASF. The disease is highly contagious, with more than 90% of infected animals dying within a few days.
The city of Bad Berleburg and the district of Siegen-Wittgenstein are taking measures to prevent the spread of ASF, and the public is encouraged to follow the guidelines set by local authorities to ensure the safety of both wildlife and domestic animals.
Other scientific and medical-condition studies have been temporarily postponed in the health-and-wellness department of the city to dedicate resources to managing the African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak. Environmental-science researchers are also involved, studying the potential impact of ASF on local ecosystems and wildlife.
