Italy increases precautionary level above EU standards for ASF

In response to two parliamentary questions regarding African swine fever (ASF), Italian Minister of Health Orazio Schillaci has emphasised the comprehensive measures implemented by the relevant health authorities to prevent infections and safeguard the pig sector. This response acknowledges the significant health and economic implications of the outbreak. Among the many actions taken, the role of the special commissioner to the ASF has been strengthened by assigning additional functions and financial resources for structural and functional interventions in the field of public health security. Furthermore, all consignments of products containing meat from animals from the holdings where the outbreak occurred are traceable. In close cooperation with the European Commission, Italy has adopted a precautionary approach that exceeds Community legislation requirements, including tracing raw materials and processed products at secondary stages of processing and distribution. For outbreak investigations, each case is subject to an epidemiological analysis. This survey will include all actions that may have led to the infection spreading in the period of risk before detection, including movements of animals, vehicles, and people entering and leaving the holding. In Minister Schillaci’s opinion, while these restrictions will undoubtedly have consequences for the production chain, they are proportionate to the risk of further infection.