Olev Kalda, head of the Animal Health and Welfare Department at the PTA, says the situation is very serious. The disease has spread to four new counties where it had not been present for a long time.
Many pig farmers are concerned. Infected wild boars are near farms. In Viljandi, Tartu, and Rapla counties, nearly 13,000 domestic pigs have been culled or are in the process of being culled. Varpo Vare, the manager of Kaubi farm, says they follow all biosecurity rules, but this does not mean they are protected from the disease.
Olev Kalda says the disease is spreading more intensively this year. The disease has spread to Tartu, Rapla, Jõgeva, and Järva counties. The number of positive cases among wild boars has reached 65 animals. About 70% of the dead animals were infected.
Tõnu Peterson, the director of the Tartu Hunting Club, says hunters are actively hunting wild boars. Emphasis is also placed on disinfecting clothing and footwear. Peterson also advises berry and mushroom pickers to disinfect their clothes and footwear.
Ragnar Loova, the director of Nõo Meat Industry, says the current cases are not affecting meat prices. Estonia's meat production is small compared to Europe. According to the PTA, the spread of the disease will remain active until the beginning of autumn.