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What is African swine fever?
African swine fever is a highly contagious viral disease that affects pigs and wild boar. It causes severe illness and often death in infected animals. The virus is not related to human illnesses and does not pose a health risk to people.
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Can African swine fever infect humans?
No, African swine fever is harmless to humans. It only affects pigs and wild boar. The virus cannot be transmitted to people through contact, food, or the environment.
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How does ASF spread among pigs?
ASF spreads mainly through direct contact with infected animals, contaminated food, or objects like equipment and clothing. It can also spread via wild boar populations and contaminated environments.
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What are the signs of ASF in pigs?
Infected pigs may show symptoms like high fever, loss of appetite, weakness, skin lesions, and sudden death. Wild boar may also exhibit similar signs, making early detection crucial for containment.
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What measures are being taken to control ASF in Spain?
Spain has implemented strict controls including surveillance, culling infected animals, and restricting movement of pigs and pork products. Authorities are also using drones and sniffer dogs to locate infected wildlife and prevent further spread.
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What is the future outlook for Spain’s pork industry?
The outbreak has raised concerns about trade restrictions and economic impacts. While efforts are underway to contain the disease, the future of Spain’s pork exports depends on how effectively the outbreak is managed and whether trade restrictions are lifted.