The first ASF case in Estonia was recorded in the fall of 2014, when the virus was detected in a dead wild boar piglet in Valga County, just 6 km from the Latvian border. By 2017, the disease had spread throughout the country, except for the western island of Hiiumaa, which remains ASF-free.
Spread among domestic pigs began in 2015, with 27 farm outbreaks recorded by 2017. No domestic pig outbreaks occurred between 2018 and 2020, after which the virus began appearing sporadically: once in 2021 and twice in 2023.
This year, at least seven ASF outbreaks have been confirmed among domestic pigs. The spread is driven both by a persistent virus reservoir among wild boars and occasional “jumps” linked to human activity, such as the movement of contaminated equipment, vehicles, or materials.
Impact on the Swine Sector
ASF outbreaks have serious consequences for Estonian farmers and rural communities. Once an outbreak is confirmed, large-scale culling of infected or suspected animals occurs, sometimes involving thousands of pigs, resulting in direct financial losses.
Quarantine measures and control zones established under EU rules restrict animal transport and trade, disrupt farm operations, and complicate exports. While compensation schemes exist, they can be delayed or contested. Even farms following biosecurity requirements are affected, creating both financial and psychological strain.
This summer, a farm in Viljandi requested independent laboratory testing before the scheduled culling, with dozens of post-confirmation samples testing negative. Estonian authorities warn that delaying culls could breach EU regulations, risking sanctions and potential suspension of all pork exports.
Government Response
The Agricultural and Food Board (PTA), under the Ministry of Regional Affairs and Agriculture, coordinates detection, monitoring, and control of the disease, working with national laboratories, ministries, and contracted teams. They conduct testing, enforce quarantines and movement restrictions, and safely dispose of carcasses via AS Vireen.
Key measures this year include targeted testing of suspect animals, quarantines and movement bans, mandatory culls under EU and national regulations, and, in disputed cases, sending samples to foreign laboratories for confirmation. The public is also advised to avoid outbreak areas.
Protests Over Planned Culling in Viljandi
Authorities stress that rapid culling of infected herds is essential to protect other farms and contain the virus. However, communication gaps and skepticism toward national test results have sparked protests.
At Nurme Farm in Viljandi, 4,500 pigs were scheduled for culling after ASF was confirmed by both national and Spanish laboratories. Demonstrations on August 8–9 and again this week gathered local residents, animal welfare advocates, and political groups. Protesters demanded greater transparency in testing and postponed culling until foreign lab results were confirmed.
Current Situation
As of August 13, seven ASF cases among domestic pigs have affected nearly 26,000 animals:
- Tartu — 3 farms, ~8,000 pigs
- Põlva — 1 farm, 6,700 pigs
- Viljandi — 1 farm, 4,500 pigs
- Rapla — 1 farm, 4,000 pigs
Among wild boars, ASF cases remain widespread, particularly in the southern part of the country.
PigUA.info, based on materials from news.err.ee