With the recent uptick in global cases of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) and African Swine Fever (ASF), the Swine Health Information Center (SHIC) is urging North American pork producers to heighten biosecurity vigilance and review protocols to reduce both endemic and foreign animal disease risk.
The warning comes as part of SHIC’s May Global Swine Disease Monitoring Report, featured in their monthly eNewsletter. According to Dr. Lisa Becton, SHIC’s Associate Director, current developments across Europe and Asia point to a troubling trend in the spread and evolution of these high-impact diseases.
Foot-and-Mouth Disease: Renewed European and Asian Activity
FMD is reemerging in parts of Europe, with multiple outbreaks reported in Hungary and Slovakia. Even more concerning, South Korea has confirmed 16 outbreaks since mid-March 2025, signaling continued virus movement in densely populated swine regions. A newly detected SAT1 serotype has also been identified in several countries in the Near East, expanding the genetic footprint of the disease.
African Swine Fever: Surging in Eastern Europe
Meanwhile, African Swine Fever continues to surge in Moldova and Romania, with case numbers already surpassing 2024 levels. The United Kingdom is maintaining elevated border surveillance to combat the risk of both ASF and FMD, with multiple illegal meat products intercepted in recent months.
Biosecurity Awareness: The First Line of Defense
Dr. Becton emphasizes that foreign animal diseases could enter the U.S. not only through illegal meat products but also via contaminated clothing and footwear—particularly from travelers returning from infected areas abroad.
“Being aware of where these threats exist globally can help producers and industry stakeholders better identify potential entry points into North America,” Becton explains.
She notes that strong biosecurity protocols—already critical in managing endemic diseases—remain the most effective defense against transboundary diseases like ASF and FMD.
What Producers Can Do:
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Review and reinforce farm-level biosecurity protocols.
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Educate workers on risks tied to travel and contaminated materials.
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Monitor global disease reports and stay informed through SHIC and USDA updates.
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Control access to facilities and enhance disinfection measures, especially for international visitors or returnees.
Swine Web Takeaway:
As global disease threats evolve, so must our preparedness. The risk of ASF and FMD entering North America remains ever-present. Maintaining a proactive biosecurity culture across all stages of production is not optional—it’s essential.
Stay up to date with SHIC’s reports at www.swinehealth.org and remain vigilant in the face of growing foreign animal disease threats.
