According to the Official Veterinary Services of the Government of Catalonia, since the previous update issued on February 17, 2026, three additional outbreaks have been identified, adding 33 new cases among wild boars. These include animals found dead in the wild, remains discovered in natural areas, or animals culled after showing symptoms consistent with ASF.
In total, 34 outbreaks have now been recorded in the region, including three primary outbreaks and 31 secondary ones. The virus has been confirmed in 195 wild boars across seven municipalities in Catalonia: Cerdanyola del Vallès, Sant Cugat del Vallès, Sant Quirze del Vallès, Terrassa, Rubí, Molins de Rei, and Sant Feliu de Llobregat.
At the same time, veterinary authorities continue extensive epizootic surveillance. Within active and passive monitoring programs, an additional 1,433 animals were tested and found negative. Of these, 942 wild boars were captured or culled without clinical signs of disease, while 491 animals were examined under passive surveillance, including carcasses, remains found in the wild, or animals culled due to suspected symptoms.
Laboratory investigations included testing 1,042 samples using the ELISA method, six of which tested positive and were confirmed by PCR. An additional 17 cases were also confirmed using the indirect immunoperoxidase technique as an alternative antibody detection test.
Experts estimate that the virus is spreading among the wild boar population at a rate of approximately 1.7 km per month, or about 20.7 km per year.
To contain the spread of the disease, authorities are strengthening biosecurity measures. A total of 222 control points equipped with cattle grids and other barriers have been installed to prevent wild boars from entering or leaving the infected area while still allowing the movement of vehicles and people.
In addition, on February 20 the EU Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed (PAFF) approved a new regionalization system defining Zones I and II for ASF control. The corresponding decision is expected to be published soon in the Official Journal of the European Union.
PigUA.info based on materials from pig333.com