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"Porcine fever: Lift the restrictions in the regions of Alessandria and Novara"

Pig disease African swine fever has eased restrictions in regions of Alessandria and Novara.

Stop the Lifting of Swine Fever Quarantine in Alessandria and Novara Regions
Stop the Lifting of Swine Fever Quarantine in Alessandria and Novara Regions

"Porcine fever: Lift the restrictions in the regions of Alessandria and Novara"

In a significant development, the provinces of Alessandria and Novara have been excluded from Restriction Zone III, following a decision made by the Regional Government. This decision comes after over a year with no reported cases of African Swine Fever infection in these provinces, as confirmed by the European Commission.

The current international scenario has highlighted the need for a strong, independent, and sustainable agriculture in Europe. The exclusion of these provinces is a testament to the effective measures taken to control the spread of African Swine Fever.

Regional assessor Paolo Bongioanni, delegate for African Swine Fever, commented on the decision, praising the constant coordination between various bodies responsible for controlling the disease. Bongioanni's comments were echoed by Coldiretti Alessandria president Mauro Bianco, who expressed hope for farmers who have faced restrictions and made significant biosecurity investments.

Strict biosecurity measures were enforced, and it is necessary to continue maintaining them to ensure the continued absence of the disease. The exclusion also includes Lodi and Pavia in Lombardy.

Thousands of healthy pigs were culled in the northern zone bordering Novara to prevent further spread of the infection. This strong action against wild boar, a potential vector of infection, was taken to safeguard the health of domestic pigs and the livelihoods of farmers.

Coldiretti director Roberto Bianco called for the complete eradication of African Swine Fever and reduced wild boar presence to avoid health risks, crop damage, and economic consequences. The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) should be strengthened and simplified to support agricultural businesses that work the land and care for the territory.

The areas excluded from Restriction Zone III will revert to Zone II, including the province of Alessandria. Despite the positive news, it is crucial to remain vigilant and maintain the hard-won progress against African Swine Fever.

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