ASF Watch: February Data Signals Continued Risk in Europe

By
Jim Eadie
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Global ASF Update

As of February 2025, African Swine Fever (ASF) continues to pose a major global threat to swine health and production, with new outbreaks emerging across Europe. Since January 2022, ASF has been reported in 64 countries and territories, with devastating losses in domestic pigs and wild boars.

February 2025 Key Highlights

  • New outbreaks reported in domestic pigs: 51

  • New outbreaks reported in wild boar: 735

  • Animal losses (domestic pigs): 3,910

  • Countries with new ASF events: Estonia, Croatia, Ukraine

  • Ukraine reported the most significant spread, with ASF re-emerging over 100 km from the nearest prior outbreak—a concerning “jump” suggesting gaps in biosecurity.

  • No new outbreaks were reported in Africa, the Americas, Asia, or Oceania this period.

Trends and Risks

  • ASF remains active in high-density pig farming regions across Europe.

  • A slight increase in outbreaks occurred during late 2024, continuing into early 2025. Although a dip in February numbers was observed, the report notes that late notifications may still alter the final count.

  • Since January 2022:

    • Over 934,000 cases in domestic pigs

    • Over 1.99 million pig losses

    • Most severe impact in Europe and Asia

Recommendations

  • No vaccination programs were reported despite emerging vaccine trials in some countries. WOAH emphasizes the need for safe, approved vaccine use only.

  • Biosecurity remains the top tool for controlling ASF. WOAH continues to stress early detection, transparent reporting, and the development of well-planned vaccination programs (where relevant).

  • The recurrence of ASF far from previous zones reiterates the importance of continued vigilance, especially in non-endemic countries or regions that may be falsely perceived as low-risk.

Looking Ahead

  • 20 self-declarations of ASF-free status are currently active.

  • WOAH urges all stakeholders in the swine industry to stay informed, enforce strict farm-level biosecurity, and report any suspected cases immediately.

Useful Links for Producers

For more on ASF risk and control strategies, visit SwineWeb.com or reach out to your local veterinary authority.

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