This is dangerous because the African swine fever virus can enter Austria with privately produced meat and sausages that have not been subjected to official controls. We have analysed 50 samples of these animal products, all with negative results.

The transport of such products (including raw ham, sausage products, meat spreads, etc.) from non-EU countries is prohibited. Within the EU, household quantities are permitted, provided that the manufacturer of the meat products is subject to proper veterinary supervision in the country of origin.

African swine fever endangers farm animals and wild boar alike. The infection is usually fatal for infected domestic and wild pigs. Humans can easily spread African swine fever over long distances through food contaminated with the virus, but the virus does not pose a health risk to humans. African swine fever is currently particularly active in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia and Kosovo.

Animal disease radar: Information on the spread of African swine fever in Europe