Latvia has confirmed another outbreak of African swine fever (ASF), this time at the SIA Baltic Pork farm in Lauber, Ogre region. The outbreak, reported by the Food and Veterinary Service (PVD) on September 1, will result in the culling of all 20,000 pigs on the farm to contain the virus.
Quarantine Measures and Investigation
Authorities have established a quarantine zone around the farm, strengthened biosecurity protocols, and imposed restrictions on animal and product movement to prevent further spread. An epidemiological investigation is already underway.
PVD officials stressed the high risk of transmission since ASF persists in the environment and can spread via clothing, footwear, equipment, and transport. Farmers across Latvia, from smallholders to large-scale operations, are urged to maintain strict biosecurity practices.
Broader Impact in Latvia and Beyond
This marks the eighth ASF outbreak among domestic pigs in Latvia in 2025. Nearly 1,000 wild boars across 26 regions have also tested positive this year, reinforcing wildlife’s role as a constant source of infection.
SIA Baltic Pork is majority-owned by Mork Engebretsen Invest (71.57%) and SE Agro Holding (28.43%). The outbreak follows a large-scale ASF case in Estonia just last week, where 27,000 pigs were destroyed at the country’s largest farm.
No Human Risk, But High Economic Costs
While ASF poses no threat to humans, it remains lethal to pigs and causes devastating economic losses, as each outbreak requires the complete destruction of affected herds.
