Luxembourg is preparing for the possible emergence of African swine fever

The threat of African swine fever (PPA) is close to the borders of Luxembourg. In neighbouring Germany, the virus has already been detected in the state of Hesse, prompting an emergency response from the Grand Duchy authorities. The Minister of Agriculture, Food and Wine, Martine Hansen, and the Minister of Environment, Climate and Biodiversity, Serge Wilmes, have convened a special Taskforce PPA group to develop a plan of action in case the virus enters the country.

Representatives of various agencies and organisations took part in the discussion: the Luxembourg Veterinary and Food Administration (ALVA), the High Commissariat for National Protection, the Nature and Forest Administration, the Road Service, private veterinarians, the Saint-Hubert Hunters' Federation and even the rescue team of the Grand Duchy Fire and Rescue Corps. The main aim is to prevent the spread of the virus, which is transmitted not only through direct contact between animals but also through contaminated food and waste.

One of the key decisions was the extension of the premium for shooting young boars. Until 31 March 2026, hunters will receive 50 euros for each boar pig killed. This should help to reduce the population of wild pigs, which are the main carriers of the virus. The authorities are also considering adapting hunting hours to increase population control.

In addition, two new collection centres for carcasses of infected animals will soon be opened in Luxembourg, in Niederfeulen and Marnach. This will make it possible to quickly remove potential sources of infection from nature.

Luxembourg is preparing in advance for a possible outbreak: 30 kilometres of electric fences have already been purchased, which can be immediately deployed around the outbreak area in the event of a first case of PPA. This is to prevent the migration of infected animals and limit the spread of the virus.

Another important measure is to train dogs to search for dead wild pigs. It is decomposing carcasses that are the main reservoir of the virus, which can persist in the environment for months. Trained dogs can help find and remove infected remains more quickly.

In parallel with practical measures, ALVA has launched an extensive information campaign. Through specialised articles, leaflets, conferences and training sessions, the authorities are warning transporters, hunters, international travellers and seasonal workers about the risks of infection.

One of the main threats is contaminated food discarded in forests and on roadsides. Wild boars often eat food waste, and the virus can survive in cured meat, sausages and other products for months. The authorities therefore particularly emphasise the importance of proper disposal of food waste.

At the moment, no cases of African swine fever have been reported in Luxembourg, but the authorities require strict biosecurity measures. Access to pig farms remains restricted - only authorised persons can enter, and they must follow strict sanitary protocols.

Any wild boar body found in the forest should be immediately reported to ALVA (tel: 247-82539) so that specialists can promptly carry out laboratory analyses and, if necessary, initiate emergency measures.