A swine disease was detected at Nurme farm in Viljandi municipality. Due to the disease, 4500 pigs will be culled. This was announced by the Agricultural and Food Board (PTA).
Laboratory tests confirmed the presence of the disease. The sample was taken during routine inspection. All pigs on the farm will be culled as the disease cannot be treated. PTA will organize cleaning and disinfection of the farm. After this, the premises can be used for pigs again.
Financial compensation can be claimed for pigs that died or were culled on the farm. PTA warns that entering areas with sick animals without permission is prohibited. Safer behavior helps protect Estonian pig farming. Traffic near the farm may be difficult.
The previous disease case was in Rapla County on July 25. There, 4000 pigs were culled. This year, over 17,000 pigs have been infected.
This disease is not dangerous to humans or other animals. However, people can spread the disease if they come into contact with sick animals. Items carrying the disease may also be present on cars, clothing, and footwear. Therefore, these should be carefully cleaned.
As of July 30, the disease has been found in 67 wild boars. The disease spread mainly in summer, from June to September. This means that in summer, pig health must be monitored especially carefully. If there is suspicion of the disease, a veterinarian or PTA should be notified immediately.